Showmax is set to premiere its much-anticipated original documentary, “Tracking Thabo Bester,” on March 15, 2024. This true-crime series delves into the shocking story of Thabo Bester, a convicted murderer and rapist, who was initially believed to have died in a prison cell fire but was later spotted alive in a shopping center. The revelation, first reported by GroundUp, sparked widespread interest and led to Bester becoming the most Googled person in South Africa in 2023. His accomplice, Dr. Nandipha Magudumana, also captured the nation’s attention, ranking fourth in the same list.
Produced by the acclaimed IdeaCandy, known for their work on Devilsdorp and Steinheist, and directed by Nikki Comninos of Convict Conman fame, the documentary promises an in-depth exploration of the case that has been dubbed “Bestermania.” The series will cover the tumultuous narrative of love, murder, deceit, and corruption that has fascinated the country, earning Bester and Magudumana the title of ‘SA Villain of the Year’ by Daily Maverick.
“Tracking Thabo Bester” is structured as a four-part series, released in two segments on consecutive weeks. It kicks off with GroundUp journalists Marecia Damons and Daniel Steyn, who received an anonymous tip challenging the official account of Bester’s death. Their investigative work, which led to prestigious journalism awards and a bestselling book, forms the backbone of the first episode.
The documentary will also explore Bester’s initial conviction, the involvement of a celebrity doctor, and the mystery surrounding the true identity of the body found in Cell 35. Featuring interviews with key figures including prisoners, warders, and the family of Katlego Bereng Mpholo, whose body was mistakenly identified as Bester’s, the series aims to shed light on the broader issues within the South African prison system.
Comninos, who has received multiple SAFTA nominations for her editing work, makes her directorial debut with Showmax through this compelling narrative. She emphasizes the significance of Bester’s case in understanding systemic flaws in prison management and the ease with which inmates can exploit these gaps for personal gain.
The documentary’s release comes amid ongoing legal proceedings against Bester, Magudumana, and their co-accused, with their trial recently postponed to June 5, 2024. “Tracking Thabo Bester” promises to offer viewers an unprecedented look into one of South Africa’s most gripping true-crime stories.
