South Africa's TopTV Gets Green Light to Broadcast Porn

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — South Africa’s TopTV has been given the green light by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) to broadcast three adult content channels.

After a series of deliberations, public consultations and two separate applications, the financially strapped broadcaster can now air Playboy TV, Desire TV and Private Spice between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m.

Viewers will be faced with a double PIN code system to “safeguard children’s rights” according to an ICASA statement.

"The authority upholds the view that there is no law of general application prohibiting the production and distribution of adult content in South Africa. Only the production and distribution of child pornography is expressly prohibited by law," ICASA spokesman Paseka Maleka said.

In March, TopTV, owned by On Digital Media (ODM), said the addition of the new programming would help it dig out of its financial hole and save 250 jobs. Adult programming and sports are reportedly the key drivers for the international pay TV business.

This was TopTV’s second attempt to have the porn channels approved. Its first application for a 24-hour channel was shot down according to the company on the "presumption by ICASA that the proposed content would portray women in an undignified manner and that it would put children at risk.”

TopTV’s latest application was opposed by a number of conservative groups including the Christian Action Network that claimed porn degrades women.

Although ICASA said it considered all of the arguments against TopTV’s bid to air porn, Maleka said the regulator found that most of the arguments were based on moral grounds "rather than evidence to demonstrate some of the conclusive remarks linking pornography to gender-based violence.”

According to Business Day Live, TopTV has received an offer from Chinese firm StarTimes for 20 percent of the company in a deal that would provide it with additional content.

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Federal Appeals Court Vacates FTC 'Click to Cancel' Rule Pending Review

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit on Tuesday vacated the Federal Trade Commission’s “click-to-cancel” rule aimed at making it easier for consumers to cancel online subscriptions, pending further review.

Elegant Angel Premieres Nicole Kitt Showcase 'Cats Eye'

Nicole Kitt gets the spotlight in a new four-part showcase release from Elegant Angel.

Private Releases 'The Love Hotel 2'

Private has released “The Love Hotel 2,” directed by Dave Menich.

Ember Fiera, Jesse Pony Headline 'TS Girls Do It Best' Sequel From TransSensual

Ember Fiera and Jesse Pony topline the sequel to “TS Girls Do It Best” from Mile High Media studio imprint TransSensual.

Khloe Kapri, Melissa Stratton Topline 'Lesbian Trainer 3' From Sweetheart Video

Khloe Kapri and Melissa Stratton headline the third volume of “Lesbian Trainer” from Mile High Media studio imprint Sweetheart Video.

FSC Drops Florida AV Lawsuit in Wake of SCOTUS Decision

A U.S. district court judge granted on Tuesday a motion by Free Speech Coalition to dismiss the trade association’s lawsuit over Florida’s age verification law, a case that had been on hold pending the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on the constitutionality of state AV laws.

Gal Ritchie Toplines Dorcel's 'Pigalle'

2025 XMAs winner Gal Ritchie stars with Clara Mia in the latest feature from Dorcel, titled “Pigalle.”

Ukrainian President Responds to Porn Legalization Petition

President Volodymyr Zelensky responded Tuesday to an OnlyFans model’s petition to decriminalize pornography in Ukraine, stating that he would wait for the legislative process to play out “in accordance with established procedure.”

Penthouse Names Sharna Beckman July's 'Pet of the Month'

Penthouse Magazine has named Australian model Sharna Beckman as Pet of the Month for July.

Only Tax Deductions Joins Pineapple Support as Sponsor

Adult industry accounting firm Only Tax Deductions has joined the ranks of over 70 adult businesses and organizations committing funds and resources to Pineapple Support.

Show More