What to watch on DStv Compact Plus in August 2026

Shotgun Wedding

In celebration of Women's Month, Movie Magic 3 and 4 features a host of action movies starring kick-ass leading ladies. In Shotgun Wedding, a dream island ceremony takes an unexpected turn when armed pirates take the guests hostage. It's up to the bride and groom (Jennifer Lopez and Josh Duhamel) to overcome their pre-wedding jitters and work together to save everyone. This action-packed comedy combines humour, adventure and heart as the couple fights for their future – and their survival. 

Supercruising: Life at Sea

Step aboard two of Holland America Line’s most luxurious cruise ships for an exclusive look at life on the high seas. This eight-part series takes viewers behind the scenes, following crew members responsible for keeping thousands of passengers comfortable, entertained and safe. Alongside spectacular destinations and breathtaking ocean views, the show reveals the immense planning and coordination required to operate a floating city. Balancing glamour with reality, Supercruising offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the world’s most popular travel experiences.

Stream Supercruising: Life at Sea from Thursday, 20 August at 8PM on BBC Lifestyle channel 174.

The Challenge All Stars S5

Former rivals are paired with the very competitors they once clashed with most in this intense new season of The Challenge All Stars. To have any chance of winning a share of the $300,000 grand prize, each pair must put old grudges aside and learn to work together. As alliances shift and tensions flare, the combination of physical challenges, strategic gameplay and unresolved history creates explosive television. In a competition where trust is everything, survival is never guaranteed.

Stream The Challenge All Stars S5 from Wednesday, 26 August at 10PM on MTV channel 130.

History's Greatest Machines with Dolph Lundgren

Actor and engineer Dolph Lundgren takes viewers inside some of history’s most remarkable inventions and machines. From military aircraft and submarines to royal regalia and space-age technology, each episode explores how these extraordinary creations were designed, built and used. Combining hands-on demonstrations, expert insight and fascinating historical context, Lundgren uncovers the engineering secrets behind humanity’s greatest innovations. It is an entertaining and informative journey through the machines that have shaped warfare, exploration, industry and culture.

Stream History's Greatest Machines with Dolph Lundgren from Tuesday, 18 August at 7:25PM on HISTORY channel 186.

Stonehenge: The Final Mystery Revealed

For more than a century, archaeologists believed Stonehenge’s mysterious altar stone originated in Wales, alongside the monument’s famous bluestones. Actor Jason Watkins and historian Tracy Borman investigate groundbreaking research that challenges this long-held assumption, uncovering evidence that traces the six-tonne stone to northern Scotland. Combining archaeology, history and cutting-edge science, the documentary explores one of Stonehenge’s final unanswered questions and sheds new light on how and why one of the world’s most iconic prehistoric monuments was created.

Stream Stonehenge: The Final Mystery Revealed from Thursday, 13 August at 8PM on BBC Earth channel 184.

Butterfly Effect S5

Science doesn’t always change the world through headline-grabbing breakthroughs. Sometimes it starts with a single overlooked discovery, a lucky accident or a moment of unexpected insight. Butterfly Effect explores the pivotal turning points that transformed scientific thinking, tracing how small events led to major advances across a range of disciplines. Designed for viewers who think science isn’t for them, the series brings complex ideas to life through engaging storytelling, revealing how seemingly minor moments can have extraordinary consequences.

Stream Butterfly Effect S5 from Saturday, 1 August at 9PM on Curiosity Channel.

911: Did the Killer Call?

Stream 911: Did the Killer Call? from XX August at XPM on ID channel 171.

Boer Soek 'n Vrou S18

In August, Boer Soek ’n Vrou enters an exciting new phase as matches from across the country gather for speed dates. With only five minutes to make an impression, each farmer must decide whom he wants to get to know better. The farmer will spend more time with their five chosen matches before inviting three of them to visit the farm for a week. The farm visits offer a first glimpse into the farmers' world, after which an adventure away from the farm creates new possibilities. However, surprising news leads to unexpected twists in their search for love.

Watch Boer Soek ’n Vrou S18 on Thursdays at 8PM on kykNET channel 144

Gesels S9

Gesels returns for a ninth season in which motivation, renewal and personal growth take centre stage. Presenter Leandie du Randt welcomes Daniëlla van Heerden, Anrich Herbst, Amalia Uys, Rolene Strauss, Melanie du Bois and Nicole Holm, among others, for candid conversations about their lives, careers and personal growth. The season also explores skincare, fashion, technology and local experiences.

Watch Gesels S9 on Saturday, 8 August at 8PM on VIA channel 147

Premier League

You've lived through the FIFA World Cup - now watch the world's biggest talents take to the field again for the new season of the Premier League. Liverpool fans will be cheering on their team to repeat the incredible win they achieved in 2025, but they'll have to work hard to get past their rivals: second place winners Arsenal will be gunning for the trophy. The first match – Arsenal vs Coventry City – takes place on 21 August, and SuperSport will be showing every match until the final day, 30 May 2027.