Riveting Coastal Town Crime Drama Die oord Starts in April on kykNET
A peaceful seaside escape turns into a gripping nightmare in Die oord, kykNET’s highly anticipated new crime drama set to premiere on 14 April. What begins as a nostalgic holiday at a coastal caravan park quickly spirals into a chilling mystery when a body washes ashore, shattering the illusion of paradise.
Set in the fictional seaside town of Kalfiebaai, the series captures the essence of traditional South African holiday culture—family caravans, beachside laughter, and braais under shady trees. But beneath the surface lies a web of secrets, tension, and long-buried truths waiting to surface.
A Story Rooted in Memory and Mystery
Created by acclaimed storyteller Christiaan Olwagen, Die oord draws inspiration from his own childhood experiences at caravan parks along the coast. Co-written with Lorraine Burger and Igna Botha, the series transforms this familiar setting into a “locked-room” mystery filled with emotional depth and suspense.
Olwagen describes the caravan park as a unique ecosystem—one governed by unspoken rules, social hierarchies, and simmering tensions. It’s the perfect backdrop for a crime story where no one can truly escape each other.
A Holiday Gone Wrong
At the center of the story is Martie Pretorius, played by Jana Kruger, a criminologist taking a much-needed break with her family. Joined by her sister Elsabé (Erica Wessels) and their loved ones, Martie hopes the trip will help mend strained relationships—especially with her son Paul (Liam Bosman).
However, their holiday takes a dark turn when the body of a teenage boy is discovered on the beach. Suddenly, the close-knit community becomes a pool of suspects.
Local police officer Brandi Jacobs (Melissa de Vries) initially suspects gang involvement, but Martie notices something more sinister. The clues—distinct wounds, a plastic bag, and a cryptic Bible verse—point to a chilling possibility: the return of a serial killer known as Prediker, who terrorized victims 15 years earlier.
Secrets, Suspicion, and a Stellar Cast
As Martie is reluctantly drawn into the investigation, she must also confront her own hidden past—one that could have devastating consequences for her son.
The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast including Dawid Minnaar, Jacques Bessenger, Nicole Holm, Zane Meas, Antoinette Kellermann, and Laudo Liebenberg, among others.
Each character brings their own story, secrets, and motives, adding layers of intrigue to a narrative where trust is fragile and danger lurks beneath the surface.
Authentic Setting and Production
Directed by Eva du Preez, Die oord was filmed across the scenic Cape Peninsula, including locations like Kommetjie and Melkbosstrand, as well as the northern suburbs of Cape Town.
The series is produced by Wolflight Films, led by Roelof Storm, known for the SAFTA-nominated drama Niggies.
When and Where to Watch
Die oord premieres on 14 April on kykNET (DStv channel 144) and will also be available for streaming on DStv Stream and Catch Up.
With its haunting premise, layered storytelling, and powerful performances, Die oord promises to be one of the most compelling South African crime dramas of the year—where paradise is only skin deep, and everyone has something to hide.
