The Afrikaans-language version of “The Office,” titled “Die Kantoor,” has officially announced its premiere date on Showmax, set for January 20.
Ahead of the double-episode launch on January 20, kykNET will showcase the first episode on January 18.
This South African adaptation represents the 14th international version of the beloved BBC Studios format, shifting the setting from a paper company to Deluxe Processed Meats, a polony manufacturer. The series is penned and directed by Bennie Fourie, a recognised talent with SAFTA and Silwerskerm accolades. “It’s a massive honour to be able to make the show,” Fourie expressed. “When we started with ‘Hotel,’ this was the type of production we aspired to. After a decade of experimenting with the mockumentary genre, we believe now is the perfect moment to undertake this. Everything has fallen into place, and we’re incredibly excited.”
Fourie noted that the series aims to adapt the format for South African viewers rather than simply translating it. “South Africa is neither the U.K. nor the U.S., and we wanted to ensure that was reflected,” he remarked. The choice of a polony manufacturer as the backdrop connects with local culture while preserving the show’s signature tone. “South Africa has a rich meat-eating tradition,” said Fourie. “However, polony typically doesn’t cut what we cherish. It’s just uncomfortably pink. When enjoying a braai, showcasing enthusiasm for polony isn’t the typical conversation, especially after the Listeriosis crisis.”
Albert Pretorius, a recipient of the 2025 Fleur du Cap award, stars as Flip, the newly appointed office manager. “Flip’s been in charge for just a year and is eager to welcome the documentary filmmakers,” Fourie shared. “He feels this is his own ‘Chasing the Sun’ moment, where his path to greatness deserves documentation.”
The cast features an ensemble of talented actors, including SAFTA laureate Schalk Bezuidenhout, Lida Botha, Carl Beukes, Silverskerm winner Ilse Oppelt, Daniah de Villiers, Mehboob Bawa, Sipumziwe Lucwaba, and newcomer Gert du Plessis.
Produced by Rapid Blue, a division of BBC Studios, the Showmax Original is set for global distribution.
“Our inaugural Showmax Original was a mockumentary, ‘Tali’s Wedding Diary,’ making this reimagined version of the iconic mockumentary a full circle moment for us,” stated Tracy-Ann van Rooyen, executive head of content at Showmax, which is part of MultiChoice, a Canal+ company.
The original British series, created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, premiered over two decades ago and has been adapted in various countries, including Australia, France, Canada, Chile, Israel, India, the Middle East, and Poland. The U.S. adaptation earned five Emmy Awards, including the prestigious Outstanding Comedy Series.
