Showmax, a leading African streaming platform, has acquired the rights to adapt the popular format The Office for South African viewers in collaboration with BBC Studios. This localised version of the hit series will premiere on both Showmax and kykNET, DStv’s Afrikaans channel.
The Office, a mockumentary created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, first captivated audiences over two decades ago. The British version of the series remains the highest-rated comedy on MetaCritic, while the American adaptation won five Emmys, including Outstanding Comedy Series, and was the most streamed show globally in 2020.
The South African version, yet to be titled, will be the 14th adaptation of this beloved format and will primarily feature Afrikaans dialogue, adding a unique local flavor to the show’s iconic humor.
Nicola van Niekerk, Head of Premium Content and Co-Productions at MultiChoice, expressed enthusiasm about the project: “Our very first Showmax Original was a mockumentary, Tali’s Wedding Diary, so we’re thrilled to be reimagining the most iconic mockumentary of all time just seven years later.”
Production is set to begin in 2025 with Rapid Blue at the helm. Known for producing award-winning content like Is’thunzi, which earned Thuso Mbedu two International Emmy nominations, Rapid Blue also has a robust track record with formats such as Dancing With The Stars, The Bachelor, and Family Feud.
Ziyanda Ngcaba, Managing Director of Rapid Blue, shared excitement about the project: “We are proud to be producing the first African version of The Office for Showmax and kykNET. The format is globally recognised and adored by audiences all over the world.”
Since its relaunch in February in partnership with Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky, Showmax, now powered by the Peacock platform, has seen significant success. The American version of The Office was among the top five international series on the platform within the first month of its relaunch.
Recent scripted Showmax Originals have gained notable recognition, including Spinners, which won Best Foreign Series at the Magnolia Awards in Shanghai, Wyfie, nominated for Best TV Series at the Seoul International TV Drama Awards, and Donkerbos, featured at Berlinale Series Market Selects. The platform’s strong lineup also includes Koek, a leading contender in the kykNET Silwerskerm Film and TV Awards, and Adulting, which achieved the largest launch day for any drama series on Showmax.
In the meantime, fans can re-watch all nine seasons of The Office on Showmax as they await the arrival of the South African version.
NBC Universal | Justin Lubin
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