By Benjamin Njoku

Showmax is kicking off 2025 with a bang, offering a bumper package of exciting new content and returning favorites.

The streaming giant just released the trailer for its upcoming Nigerian Original Limited series, “ Under The Influence”, which is due to premiere on January 24, 2025, with new episodes released every Friday.

The show explores the life of a young university graduate navigating social media fame and family dynamics. The second season of its popular show, Cheta M ‘ is also recently showing, while “Princess on a Hill”, a new series that promises to bring drama and excitement, gets underway.

“The Last Rifleman” is another thrilling new show that’s sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, as well as “The Day of the Jackal”, a gripping new series that’s not to be missed and “Yellowstone S5 Part B.”

“Under The Influence”, a dynamic blend of humour and drama is designed to reflect the lives of Nigerian Gen Zs with strong storytelling, relatable characters, and a true-to-life depiction of Lagos today.

In ‘Under the Influence’, Dami, played by Iremide Adeoye,WURA, is a fresh university graduate who relocates to Lagos to live with his older brother, Ayo, portrayed by Bobby Ekpe, Love Unplanned. Struggling to adapt to his new environment and grappling with Ayo’s high expectations, Dami vents his frustrations in an unfiltered social media rant.

To his surprise, the post goes viral, catapulting him into the spotlight and earning him a growing online following. But as the allure of social media stardom intensifies, Dami finds himself torn between his newfound fame and the challenges of his strained family dynamics, leading to life-altering decisions.

The series presents a thought-provoking exploration of the digital age, diving deep into the struggles, ambitions, and relationships of young people in Nigeria today. Directed and written by UrbanGidi, founder and creative director, Wande Thomas, (Lara of Lagos, Napped, and The Smart Money Woman 2), the series was created with a talented writing team that includes Isoken Ogiemwonyi (The Smart Money Woman), Nengi Diri, Mannie Oiseomaye and Nicole Chikwe. The cast also features exciting breakout stars Eva Ibiam, Dante Okere, Isioma Oke-Nwosu and Funmbi Oguntoye. The Real Housewives of Lagos Season 3, the hit reality show returns on January 13, 2025, with returning fan favorites Laura Ikeji Kanu, Mariam Timmer, and Carolyna Hutchings, as well as new additions Dabota Lawson, Adeola “Diiadem” Adeyemi, and Sophia Momodu. The show promises to be the most extravagant yet, showcasing Lagos’ vibrant culture and dazzling lifestyle.

With these exciting new releases and returning favorites, Showmax is definitely the place to be for entertainment in 2025!