Showmax to Adapt NBCUniversal’s Hit Comedy Superstore for South Africa

Celebrating 10 Years of Workplace Laughter with a Uniquely South African Spin

In a groundbreaking announcement, NBCUniversal Formats and African streaming giant Showmax have revealed a Zulu-language adaptation of the hit U.S. workplace comedy Superstore. This marks a significant milestone as it becomes the first African adaptation of the series, produced locally by Barkers Media in association with Universal International Studios.

The adaptation coincides with the 10th anniversary of Superstore’s original debut, created by Justin Spitzer (The Office). The original series, which aired for six seasons, was lauded as one of TV’s greatest workplace comedies, drawing in over six million viewers per episode and tackling universal themes of community and friendship in the workplace.

A South African Take on Cloud 9

The Showmax Original will bring a distinct South African flavor to the beloved series, blending its humor and heart with local cultural nuances.

“We’re on Cloud 9. I laughed my way through every episode of Superstore and can’t wait to see how the funny and lovable characters are reimagined in our complex country.”

Nicola van Niekerk, executive head of programming at MultiChoice, expressed her excitement:

The adaptation follows in the footsteps of Supertitlán, the Latin American version of Superstore produced in Mexico.

Collaboration with Barkers Media

Barkers Media, known for their work on Killer Front Page, Shebeen Queens, and the SAFTA-nominated How to Manifest a Man, will lead the local production.

“We are proud to be producing the first African version of Superstore for Showmax. The format is globally recognized and adored, so we’re looking forward to adding that distinctive South African flavour to it.”

Executive producers Reneilwe Sema and Mpho Lengane expressed their enthusiasm for the project:

Global Recognition and Enduring Legacy

“It’s a format that resonates with audiences around the world because of its undeniable humour, heart, and universal themes. Together with Showmax and Barkers Media, we look forward to bringing a uniquely South African spin to these lovable characters.”

Hannah Mabruk, VP of Format Sales for NBCUniversal Formats, emphasized the universal appeal of Superstore:

The original series showcased a standout ensemble cast, including America Ferrera as Amy, Lauren Ash as Dina, and Nico Santos as Mateo. Its accolades include nominations from the GLAAD Media Awards, Television Critics Association, and Writers Guild of America, among others.

A Decade of Workplace Comedy

Premiering exactly 10 years ago on 14 January 2015, Superstore captured audiences with its hilarious portrayal of the employees at Cloud 9, a fictional mega store. The series became a pop culture phenomenon, with its influence extending beyond the finale in 2021 through appearances in other NBCUniversal series like The Mindy Project and Good Girls.

Coming Soon to Showmax

Production of the South African adaptation is set to begin this year, offering fans a fresh and local take on the beloved comedy. While awaiting its debut, fans can revisit all six seasons of the original Superstore on Showmax.

Watch here: Superstore on Showmax