The two-part second instalment of “Great African Crimes” returned to the History Channel last week.
Hosted by true-crime author Many Wiener, the show explores historical crimes and their profound impact on communities.
In the first episode, which aired last Friday, Episode one, South Africa’s first unrecorded serial killer, who was linked to as many as nine separate murders in the early 1900s, was in the spotlight.
Pierre Basson, an insurance salesman, mirrored modern-day serial killer Rosemary Ndlovu, dealing in death through the sale of insurance premiums.
The second episode delves into the case of Maria Mouton, the sole white woman executed for murder in the Cape Colony during the 18th century. She was found guilty of murdering her husband with the assistance of two enslaved individuals, one of whom she was having an affair with.
The episode unpacks what drove her to murder.
On helming the show, Wiener shared: “These cases we’ve chosen to explore are historical crimes I had never even heard of before – and they’re absolutely fascinating. These aren’t stories you’ve seen on every true-crime list. They’re buried pieces of history; scandals, tragedies, and mysteries that have since faded from public memory.
“Digging them up feels like unearthing time capsules.”
The second season distinguishes itself from the first with its on-location filming and remarkable cinematography.
On the appeal for true-crime buffs, she added: “Because they’re historical, the storytelling isn’t just about solving the crime; it’s about stepping into a different time.
“I think it’s human nature that people are fascinated by a lack of humanity or criminal minds because they think differently. Many of the crimes we reported on also have an element of drama, espionage and emotion attached so it takes the viewer on a journey.”
Next up is a test of endurance
Meanwhile, fans of survivalist shows will enjoy “Alone: South Africa”.
It’s the first time the fan-favourite international show has been filmed in Africa.
The concept centres on 10 new survivalists who brave the scorching heat, fierce storms and dangerous wildlife while grappling with scarce water in the Great Karoo.
It goes without saying that they are pushed to their limits from a physical, mental and emotional perspective.
The hopefuls, who are from the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, need to outlast the others to clinch the $500,000 (around R8.5 million) prize money and, of course, bragging rights.
♦“Great African Crimes with Mandy Wiener” airs on History (DStv channel 186) on Friday at 9.05pm, while “Alone: South Africa” premieres on Thursday, October 30, at 7.25pm.
