kykNET, M-Net’s Afrikaans-language pay-TV channel on DStv channel 144, has commissioned a new season of its established cooking competition format, Kokkedoor. Produced by Homebrew Films, Kokkedoor: Klassiek will premiere on Thursday, 5 November 2026, at 20:00.
The new series returns to the original Kokkedoor format rather than extending one of its spin-offs. First launched in 2013, the franchise has expanded through five original seasons and related titles, including Koekedoor, Kokkedoortjies, Kokkedoor: Vuur en Vlam and Kokkedoor: Son en See. The latest commission marks the sixth season of the core series and the franchise’s eleventh entry when its spin-offs are included.
The judging panel will feature food writer and television presenter Herman Lensing and chef-restaurateur Jess van Dyk, executive chef and owner of Stellenbosch restaurant Post and Pepper. kykNET has not yet announced a presenter or disclosed the episode count.
The commission highlights the continuing role of established local formats in pay-TV programming strategies. Rather than relying exclusively on acquired content or developing entirely new concepts, broadcasters can draw on familiar intellectual property with an existing audience, while refreshing it through new contestants, creative direction and production.
For Homebrew Films, the new season also represents continued work with a broadcaster that has supported the franchise over several years. For kykNET, it reinforces the value of original Afrikaans-language programming as operators face pressure to manage costs and sharpen their channel offerings.
With channel line-ups under pressure to demonstrate value, the return of Kokkedoor illustrates how locally relevant entertainment formats can help pay-TV services maintain a distinct identity and deepen their connection with specific language audiences.
