The Johannesburg High Court is gearing up to hear the arguments for why “Tracking Thabo Bester” should not air on Showmax.

Convicted murderer and rapist, Thabo Bester, as well as his co-accused, Nandipha Magadumana, want to prevent Showmax from streaming its true crime documentary about Bester’s escape from prison (and all that took place before and after).

The last-minute application is set to be heard in court on Friday, 15 March 2024. The same day that the first two episodes of the show is due to air.

Both Bester and Magadumana have reportedly pressed The MultiChoice Group for the chance to preview the four-part documentary prior to its release. But communications liaison, Laura Cooke, says this request was denied.

“Mr Bester and Dr Magudumana have each approached the High Court, trying to stop the documentary being seen because they say it threatens their rights. Showmax has briefed legal counsel and will be vigorously opposing the applications.”

Cooke goes onto say that the duo’s attempt to prevent the public from watching the show, may be in breach of the public’s constitutional rights.

“The allegations against [them] are incredibly serious and Showmax strongly believes that it is essential for viewers to have the opportunity to watch the documentary and form their own informed opinions. Showmax is of the view that the attempt to stop Showmax from doing so is without any legal merit and breaches the constitutional rights of the public.”

Watch the trailer for the show, which is scheduled to air on Showmax on Friday: