“Absolutely Gripping”: The ABC Killer is Now Streaming on Showmax

“Absolutely Gripping”: The ABC Killer is Now Streaming on Showmax

True-crime lovers, brace yourselves. The ABC Killer – a harrowing, twist-filled three-part documentary about Moses Sithole – is now streaming exclusively on Showmax, and it’s already receiving glowing reviews.

“absolutely gripping,”

5FM describes it as

“another brilliant Showmax true-crime series… Showmax is here to remind you that South Africa has some of the most gripping crime stories in the world and some of the best people telling them.”

while Fortress of Solitude calls it

Directed by Jasyn Howes, the documentary explores the chilling true story of Moses Sithole, one of South Africa’s most notorious serial killers, who murdered 38 women and committed 40 rapes in the mid-1990s. Sithole’s crimes, committed under the guise of job offers in Atteridgeville, Boksburg, and Cleveland, shook the nation. He is currently serving a staggering 2 410 years in prison.

A Story That Found the Filmmaker

Following his SAFTA-nominated Boetie Boer, Howes returns with another 90s-set series that not only dissects the mind of a killer but also dives into the socio-political backdrop of a newly democratic South Africa. He credits journalist Tamsen de Beer, who was a rookie reporter at The Star when Sithole first called the newsroom to confess, as the inspiration for the series’ narrative arc.

“Tamsen became the perfect lens through which to tell this story. She came from a privileged, rave-culture background, but was pulled into this intense, traumatic investigation, which ultimately transformed her worldview.”

says Howes

Unearthing New Voices and Untold Truths

The ABC Killer distinguishes itself by amplifying voices never before heard in previous retellings. The series features survivor Buyiswa Swakhamisu, who courageously chose to reveal her identity, along with detectives Frans van Niekerk and Paul Nkomo – the latter having been largely absent from public records despite his critical role in catching Sithole.

The documentary also presents rare archival material, including phone call transcripts between Sithole and De Beer, personal diary entries, and unseen footage from 1995 and 1996 interviews – adding depth and authenticity to the already harrowing tale.

A Survivor’s Courage

One of the series’ most emotional moments comes from Buyiswa Swakhamisu. After initially asking to remain anonymous, she made the brave decision to go on camera.

“She felt compelled to be brave. To stand strong for other women who’ve gone through this and stayed silent.”

says Howes

Real Locations, Real Impact

Unlike many reenactments that use stand-in sets, The ABC Killer was filmed in the actual locations, including the newsroom of The Star and the original courtroom.

“It was like a time capsule. It felt like Joburg hadn’t changed at all in some parts.”

says Howes

A National Moment of Unity

Set against the backdrop of a post-apartheid South Africa during Mandela’s early presidency, the case held deep national significance.

“Much like the 1995 Rugby World Cup, this case brought together a multiracial police force to solve something that seemed impossible at the time. It showed that unity could triumph, even in darkness.”

Howes reflects

Whether you’re fascinated by true crime, South African history, or stories of resilience, The ABC Killer is a must-watch.

Stream The ABC Killer now on Showmax:
👉 Watch here

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