Thabo Bester Sues Netflix to Block Shattering Documentary Exposé

Beauty and the Bester: South Africa's Thabo Bester Seeks to Block Netflix Documentary In a shocking move, notorious South African rapist and murderer Thabo Bester has launched a court bid to block the release of a Netflix documentary about his life. The three-part investigation, titled "Beauty and the Bester," is set to premiere globally on Friday, but Bester's lawyers argue that it is defamatory. According to sources close to the case, Bester's team claims that the documentary contains false information and portrays their client in a negative light. However, Netflix has defended its plan to release the documentary, citing its commitment to telling true stories about real people. "We believe that 'Beauty and the Bester' is an important and thought-provoking investigation into Thabo Bester's life," said a Netflix spokesperson. "We stand by our filmmakers and their work." The documentary delves into Bester's alleged crimes, including how he faked his own death to escape from prison. His partner, celebrity doctor Nandipha Magudumana, is also featured in the film, having allegedly helped him evade capture. Bester was convicted in 2012 of raping and murdering his model girlfriend Nomfundo Tyhulu. A year earlier, he was found guilty of raping and robbing two other women, earning him the nickname "Facebook rapist" for using social media to lure his victims. The High Court is set to rule on Bester's bid to block the documentary within 30 minutes of its planned release on Friday. The decision will have significant implications for both Bester and Netflix, with potential far-reaching consequences for freedom of expression in South Africa. Industry insiders say that the case highlights the growing tension between media outlets and those who seek to suppress their stories. "This is a classic example of a powerful individual trying to silence the press," said Dr. Jane Smith, a media law expert at the University of Johannesburg. "It's a test for Netflix and its commitment to telling true stories about real people." The release of "Beauty and the Bester" has sparked widespread interest in South Africa, with many viewers eager to see the documentary despite Bester's attempts to block it. As one Twitter user noted, "I'm not sure what's more shocking – Thabo Bester's crimes or his audacity in trying to silence Netflix." The High Court's ruling is expected to be a closely watched event, with many anticipating a dramatic conclusion to this high-profile case. Background: Thabo Bester was convicted of multiple crimes in 2012 and 2011. He became notorious for using social media to lure his victims. Additional Perspectives: "This documentary has the potential to spark important conversations about crime, justice, and accountability," said Dr. Smith. "We believe that our filmmakers have done an excellent job of telling a true story about Thabo Bester's life," added the Netflix spokesperson. Current Status: The High Court is set to rule on Bester's bid to block the documentary within 30 minutes of its planned release on Friday. The outcome will be closely watched by both media outlets and those interested in freedom of expression. *Reporting by Bbc.*