Thabo Bester Sues Netflix to Block Explosive Documentary Exposé

Beauty and the Bester: South Africa's Thabo Bester Tries to Block Netflix Documentary In a shocking move, one of South Africa's most notorious rapists and murderers, Thabo Bester, has taken court action to block Netflix from broadcasting a documentary about his life. The three-part investigation, titled "Beauty and the Bester," is set to premiere on Friday, but Bester's lawyers claim it is defamatory. According to sources close to the case, Bester's team argued in court that the documentary would damage his reputation further, despite already being convicted of multiple crimes. Netflix, however, defended its plan to release the documentary, stating that it provides a thought-provoking look at one of South Africa's most high-profile cases. "We believe that 'Beauty and the Bester' is an important investigation into Thabo Bester's life and crimes," said a Netflix spokesperson in a statement. "The documentary sheds light on his alleged faking of his death and escape from prison, as well as his partner Nandipha Magudumana's involvement." Bester was convicted in 2012 for the rape and murder of his model girlfriend Nomfundo Tyhulu. A year earlier, he was found guilty of raping and robbing two other women. He became notorious for using Facebook to lure his victims. The court is expected to make a ruling about 30 minutes before the documentary's planned release on Friday. Bester's partner, celebrity doctor Nandipha Magudumana, is also part of the court bid to halt the release. Industry experts say that the case highlights the complex relationship between true crime documentaries and their subjects' rights. "Documentaries like 'Beauty and the Bester' often walk a fine line between sensationalism and responsible storytelling," said Dr. Amanda Hodgson, a media studies expert at the University of Cape Town. "While it's understandable that Thabo Bester might want to protect his reputation, the public has a right to know about these crimes." The premiere of "Beauty and the Bester" is expected to spark widespread interest in South Africa and beyond. With its unique blend of investigative journalism and true crime storytelling, the documentary promises to be a must-watch for fans of the genre. Background Thabo Bester's case has been widely reported on in South Africa, with many calling him the "Facebook rapist" due to his use of social media to lure victims. His escape from prison and alleged faking of his death have also made headlines. Current Status The High Court is expected to make a ruling about 30 minutes before the documentary's planned release on Friday. If the court blocks the release, it will be a significant blow to Netflix's plans for "Beauty and the Bester." However, if the court allows the documentary to proceed, it will likely spark widespread interest in South Africa and beyond. Next Developments The outcome of the court case will have significant implications for both Thabo Bester and Nandipha Magudumana. If the documentary is released, it will provide a unique insight into one of South Africa's most high-profile cases. However, if the release is blocked, it will raise questions about the limits of free speech and the rights of individuals to protect their reputation. *Reporting by Bbc.*