A riveting documentary series that exposes the twisted world of Thabo Bester, a convicted murderer who faked his own death and captivated South Africa with his story.
Credits: News 24
By Duncan Mnisi
Review – Thabo Bester, known as the “Facebook rapist,” is back in the news with Netflix’s new documentary series, Beauty and the Bester.
The four-part series chronicles Bester’s life, from his early convictions for rape and murder to his daring prison escape and eventual recapture in Tanzania.
The documentary highlights how his charm and manipulative skills allowed him to deceive and trap victims, with one episode noting, “He was a master manipulator, using his charm to get what he wanted.”
Bester’s story is intertwined with Dr. Nandipha Magudumana, a well-known doctor who fell in love with him and went on the run alongside him.
Their complicated relationship is central to the series, with Magudumana’s family and friends providing insights into her involvement.
The series has stirred controversy, as Bester and Magudumana attempted to block its release, claiming defamation and violations of their rights to a fair trial.
The court, however, ruled in favor of Netflix, noting that the story was already public knowledge.
The documentary offers a detailed look into Bester’s life, including his early criminal history, his staged death in a 2022 prison fire, the nationwide search that followed, and his eventual capture in Tanzania in 2023.
It also explores the public’s fascination with his deception and manipulation, while providing insight into the darker aspects of human nature.
With its compelling storytelling and thought-provoking themes, Beauty and the Bester is a gripping watch for anyone curious about the complexities of the human mind and the chilling realities of true crime.
