| Key Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Streaming Platforms | Showmax and kykNET |
| Production Partner | Rapid Blue, part of BBC Studios’ international production network |
| Language | Primarily Afrikaans |
| Production Start Date | 2025 |
| Significance | 14th international adaptation of “The Office” format |
| Original Series | Created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, premiered over 20 years ago |
| Showmax’s Recent Success | February relaunch in partnership with Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky, included all nine seasons of the American version of “The Office” in its offerings |
Showmax Secures Rights for South African Adaptation of “The Office”
Showmax, the African streaming giant, has officially acquired the rights to adapt the global hit “The Office” for South African audiences. This exciting venture, in partnership with BBC Studios, marks a significant milestone as the show’s 14th international adaptation. The localized version, primarily in Afrikaans, will debut on both Showmax and kykNET, DStv’s Afrikaans channel.
A New Chapter in South African Television
Production for the South African edition is set to begin in 2025 under the skilled hands of Rapid Blue, a company within BBC Studios’ international production network. Rapid Blue has a stellar reputation in the industry, known for producing award-winning content like “Is’thunzi,” which garnered two International Emmy nominations for Thuso Mbedu. Their extensive experience with global formats such as “Dancing With The Stars,” “The Bachelor,” “Family Feud,” and “Shark Tank” positions them perfectly to take on this ambitious project.
The upcoming South African adaptation joins a prestigious list of international versions of “The Office”, which includes successful adaptations in countries such as Australia, France, Canada, Chile, Israel, India, and Poland. The original British series, created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, remains a timeless classic, with the American version becoming a cultural phenomenon that dominated streaming charts globally, particularly in 2020.
Showmax’s Growing Legacy in Original Content
With its high-quality scripted originals, Showmax has been making waves in the international streaming scene. Recent hits like “Spinners”, “Wyfie”, “Catch Me A Killer”, “Donkerbos”, “Koek”, and “Adulting” have earned the platform global recognition. The decision to adapt “The Office” for South African audiences is a testament to Showmax’s commitment to delivering hyperlocal content that resonates deeply with its viewers.
Nicola van Niekerk, Showmax’s acting head of content, expressed excitement about the project, noting the success of the American version on the platform. “The relaunch slate included all nine seasons of the American version of ‘The Office,’ which went straight into our top five international series on the platform for the month,” she shared. “So we know our audience is going to be as excited to see our hyperlocal version as we are to make it.”
A Proud Moment for South African Television
The production of the first African version of “The Office” is not just a significant achievement for Showmax and kykNET, but also a proud moment for South African television. Ziyanda Ngcaba, Managing Director of Rapid Blue, emphasized the global appeal of the format, stating, “We are proud to be producing the first African version of ‘The Office’ for Showmax and kykNET. The format is globally recognized and adored by audiences all over the world.”
As the world eagerly anticipates this new adaptation, Showmax and Rapid Blue are poised to bring a unique South African flavor to “The Office”, ensuring it resonates with local audiences while maintaining the charm and humor that has made it a beloved series worldwide,