Starting 2025, Totalplay has made significant changes to its programming lineup, leading to the removal of several popular channels from the Televisa Networks portfolio, including the well-known D’Película, which specializes in classic Mexican cinema.
This decision was announced late last year and took effect as of January 2025, much to the dismay of customers who cherished the offerings from Televisa Networks. Totalplay has cited "broadcasting rights issues" as the reason behind the cutoff, which included not just D’Película, but also other favorite channels such as Golden, Distrito Comedia, and Unicable.
The decision to drop these channels impacts viewers who enjoyed classic films and popular television programming associated with Televisa Networks. D’Película’s emphasis on treasures from the golden age of Mexican cinema garnered it a loyal following.
Despite the disappointment over losing such channels, Totalplay is introducing 97 new programming options for its customers. These additions include diverse channels like BBC News, Euronews, and channels dedicated to music, which might appeal to different viewing preferences outside the Televisa offerings.
For those particularly invested in watching channels such as D’Película, other viewing options remain available. Customers could turn to Vix, which offers access to channels like TLnovelas and Unicable within its Premium subscription. Currently, Vix is promoting its services with annual subscriptions priced at $599 pesos, presenting it as a viable alternative for viewers who want to keep watching D’Película and similar programming.
Streaming has become increasingly popular, and those with internet service can also follow their favorite shows via social media platforms. For example, TLnovelas and Unicable often share clips from their television programs on TikTok and YouTube, offering fans the ability to stay connected to their favorite series.
For many customers, the abrupt changes implemented by Totalplay come as disappointing as they lose access to channels cherished for their content. Historically, networks like Televisa have played significant roles in Mexican entertainment, helping audiences remain connected to their cultural roots.
Analysts suggest this recent shift may have broader ramifications, particularly for Totalplay. The company, owned by Grupo Salinas, has worked to establish itself as a strong competitor among pay television providers by catering to customer preferences.
Despite losing channels like D’Película, the network's strategy of replacing lost content with new channels including international news sources could be perceived as aligning more with viewers' demand for global and diverse programming.
This decision could also impact Totalplay’s market position, especially as consumers are increasingly seeking value for their viewing subscriptions. With the shifting dynamics of television programming, the challenge remains for Totalplay to engage its existing customer base and attract new viewers amid growing competition.
Finally, customers of other service providers such as Izzi remain unaffected by the changes Totalplay is implementing. They continue to enjoy the full range of Televisa Networks channels without disruption, which might entice some Totalplay clients to switch providers for access to the same popular content.
At the core of these adjustments, Totalplay aims to retain its subscriber base by diversifying its offerings and trying to meet the preferences of modern viewers who often look beyond traditional television for their entertainment needs. The transformation within the industry highlights the importance of adaptation to consumer demands, particularly as the entertainment environment continues to evolve rapidly.
Whether these actions will result in customer satisfaction remains to be seen, but as Totalplay navigates these changes, it will be interesting to monitor how viewers respond and adapt their choices in light of new offerings and the loss of beloved channels.