By Naman Ramachandran

African streamer Showmax has acquired rights to adapt its hit format "The Office" for South African audiences, in partnership with BBC Studios. The localized version will debut on both Showmax and kykNET, DStv's Afrikaans channel.

Rapid Blue, part of BBC Studios’ international production network, is expected to begin production in 2025. The as-yet untitled South African version will be filmed primarily in Afrikaans.

This is the 14th international adaptation of "The Office," following versions in Australia, France, Canada, Chile, Israel, India, the Middle East and Poland, among others. The original British version of "The Office," created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, premiered more than 20 years ago and remains highly acclaimed. The American adaptation won five Emmy Awards and was the most-streamed show worldwide in 2020.