Thabo Bester and Nandipha Magudumane in Legal Battle Over Netflix Documentary
Thabo Bester and Nandipha Magudumane have launched an urgent court application to stop the premiere of the Netflix documentary series “Beauty and the Bester,” scheduled for September 12. They claim the production has violated their rights to a fair trial, dignity, and privacy.
The pair argue that the series includes misleading content, selectively edited footage, and unfounded allegations that could negatively impact their upcoming criminal trial, scheduled to begin on November 10 and run until March 29 the following year. Bester’s legal team describes the documentary as “packed with falsehood,” arguing that it denies him a fair opportunity to respond to allegations and sensationalizes the story, violating his constitutional rights.
Magudumane echoes these concerns, fearing the series could damage her reputation and adversely affect ongoing legal proceedings. The statement also cautions media outlets and broadcasters to take note of the ongoing legal proceedings and refrain from distributing the documentary until the matter is resolved in court.
The announcement of the Netflix documentary has sparked strong reactions across South Africa, with social media users questioning how Bester and Magudumane, both in custody, are funding costly legal action. Some comments reflect widespread skepticism, with one user asking, “Where do they get the money for these proceedings?” Others argue the public has a right to see the series, saying, “The story is already out there; let it air.”
Humor is also circulating, with users mocking the title “Beauty and the Bester” and the couple’s legal strategy. One post quipped, “Imagine committing crimes, then suing Netflix for telling the story.” While some support the interdict due to concerns about consent and accuracy, most seem eager for the release, viewing it as the latest chapter in a long-running national saga.
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