This archive report was first published on 22 July 2019.
On July 22, 2019, CANAL+ Group, a leading global player in the media and entertainment industry, announced the acquisition of ROK, an IROKO+ incubated African film studio and international TV network.
ROK, which was incubated from 2013 onwards by IROKO Ltd, a top African digital content distributor for Nollywood content, has been a pioneer in the African film and television industry. The studio has produced over 540 movies and 25 original TV series, making it one of the most prolific production houses in Nollywood.
As part of the acquisition, ROK founder, Mary Njoku, will continue in a leadership role as Directeur General of ROK Productions SAS, and maintains a material shareholding in the company. ROK will produce thousands more hours of Nollywood content to deliver movies and original TV series for CANAL+ Group's audiences in FSA.
According to Mary Njoku, “ROK has captured the imagination of millions of movie fans, and they have truly supported us as we’ve grown the company to celebrate and enjoy our African culture. I’m excited to be taking our platform on the next stage of its journey with CANAL+ Group, who share our passion for creating original content, supporting new talent and together, we have ambitious plans for the future.”
As part of the deal, CANAL+ Group will continue to collaborate with IROKO Ltd, with non-exclusive content distribution of ROK content via the IROKOtv SVOD app. The acquisition is expected to enhance CANAL+ Group's content portfolio in Africa and beyond.
