As winter chills linger in Gauteng, there’s no better time to curl up indoors with some of the best entertainment on offer. From gripping local docu-series to international travel shows and high-octane sports events, DStv Compact Plus has pulled out all the stops for July 2025. This month’s lineup is a mix of hard-hitting stories, emotional reflections, hilarious fiction, and global cultural adventures, something for everyone in the family.
Govan Ontbloot: Digging Deeper into Untold South African Stories
Channel: kykNET (Channel 144)
Date & Time: Wednesday, 30 July at 9PM
Investigative journalist and Carte Blanche presenter Govan Whittles returns with Govan Ontbloot, a provocative new docu-series from Combined Artistic Productions, known for Strangers You Know and Original Sin: My Son the Killer. This nine-episode series explores striking and often controversial slices of South African life, from the secluded Afrikaner enclave of Kleinfontein to gospel-based addiction treatment at Tokkie van Wyk’s New Life Centre.
In a standout segment, Govan revisits Namaqualand to uncover more about Louis Liebenberg’s alleged diamond fraud and its lingering impact. For viewers who appreciate in-depth local content, Govan Ontbloot is one of the top picks on DStv Compact Plus this month.
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Live Action with the Tour de France 2025
Channel: SuperSport Action (Channel 206)
Dates: Saturday, 5 July to Sunday, 27 July at 1PM
Cycling fans are in for a thrilling ride as the 112th Tour de France pedals through picturesque French towns and rugged mountain paths. The route begins in Lille and concludes in Paris, covering 3 320 kilometres across 21 dramatic stages. Whether you’re a seasoned cycling enthusiast or simply love the beauty of the French countryside, this globally celebrated sporting event is a must-watch. Catch it live on DStv Compact Plus with SuperSport Action.
Thirst with Shay Mitchell: A Spirited South American Journey
Channel: Food Network (Channel 175)
Date & Time: Saturday, 26 July at 9:55PM
Pretty Little Liars star Shay Mitchell embarks on a boozy South American adventure in Thirst. Visiting Peru, Argentina, Colombia, and Brazil, she uncovers the stories behind traditional brews and modern cocktails. Expect caipirinhas on the beach, espresso beer in Colombia, and fiery tiki concoctions in Buenos Aires. For travel and food lovers, Thirst offers a vibrant cultural cocktail you won’t want to miss.
Must-Watch Local Series: Wie Word ‘n Miljoenêr? and Magda Louw
Wie Word ‘n Miljoenêr?
Channel: kykNET (Channel 144)
Date & Time: Wednesday, 2 July at 8PM
This local favourite quiz show returns for its fifth season with Rian van Heerden at the helm. The stakes are high as contestants try to answer their way to R1 million. Don’t miss the special celebrity charity episode featuring Karlien van Jaarsveld and Springbok Jannie du Plessis – perfect for fans who enjoy light-hearted tension and local celebs.
Magda Louw
Channel: kykNET (Channel 144)
Date & Time: Monday, 14 July at 8PM
The quirky Louw family is back with Season 3 of this Silwerskerm-winning comedy-drama. Desiré Gardner and Hannes van Wyk reprise their roles as Magda and Erhard, alongside their new puppy, Genis. Expect chaotic family antics and heartfelt moments in this delightfully offbeat series.
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Emotional Truths in Net Mens
Channel: kykNET (Channel 144)
Date & Time: Sunday, 6 July at 8PM
Season 3 of Net Mens delivers deeply personal narratives from South African women, including Karlien van Jaarsveld and Amanda Strydom, who bravely share their experiences with miscarriage and loss. Executive producer Reynardt Hugo calls it “one of the most humbling experiences” of his career. This series is a poignant reminder of resilience and the power of storytelling.
Historical Drama and British Wit: Pharaohs at War & Death Valley
Pharaohs at War
Channel: History (Channel 186)
Date & Time: Tuesday, 29 July at 8:15PM
Delve into ancient Egypt’s turbulent military past in this visually compelling docu-series. Journey through Egypt, Greece and Turkey to learn how pharaohs used strategy, diplomacy and alliances to build and defend one of history’s greatest empires.
Death Valley
Channel: BBC Brit (Channel 120)
Date & Time: Tuesdays from 1 July at 8PM
Eccentric British humour meets mystery in Death Valley, where a washed-up actor turned amateur sleuth (Timothy Spall) teams up with an awkward detective sergeant. Think Midsomer Murders with a twist – the perfect pick for cosy evening viewing.
Family-Friendly and Foodie Treats: Kiff and Nadiya Hussain
Kiff: Lore of the Ring Light
Channel: Disney Channel (Channel 303)
Date & Time: Saturday, 5 July at 10:15AM
From Emmy-nominated South African creators comes this Lord of the Rings parody, tailor-made for kids (and adults who love clever animation). Follow Kiff and friends on a quest to destroy a magical smartphone ring light – hilarious and heartwarming in equal measure.
Nadiya’s Cook Once Eat Twice
Channel: BBC Lifestyle (Channel 174)
Date & Time: Tuesdays from 1 July at 8PM
Beloved British baker Nadiya Hussain offers practical, sustainable and delicious solutions for home cooking. Featuring genius ideas like banana peel curry and beginner-friendly bakes, it’s ideal for busy families and anyone wanting to make meals go further.
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July 2025’s top picks on DStv Compact Plus deliver a balanced buffet of thrilling drama, real-life emotion, international culture, and homegrown humour. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline, insight, or family-friendly content, there’s something to keep every screen in your home well-used this winter.