“Dark Side of Glory” is coming to Showmax! The chilling series delves into the world of sports, exposing the dark secrets and shocking murders that have shaken the industry.
The first episode, “The Durban Axe Murderer: The Rugby Killer,” premiering on July 31, 2024, tells the story of Joseph Ntshongwana, a former South African rugby player who went on to commit a series of brutal axe murders. His victims included four men, with two others left wounded. The motive behind the murders? Ntshongwana claimed to be avenging the gang rape and HIV infection of his non-existent daughter.
The documentary features interviews with Ntshongwana’s former teammates, including Springbok winger McNeil Hendricks, who describes his former friend as someone who “couldn’t hurt a fly.” Other interviews include law enforcement officials, psychologists, and key witnesses, all of whom paint a disturbing picture of a man driven by madness.
Director Arianna Perretta emphasizes the importance of giving voice to the victims and witnesses in the documentary, particularly Fikile Mkhwanazi, the partner of murder victim Paulus Hlongwa. Perretta says, “Her story was particularly powerful, and it was crucial to ensure that her testimony was heard.”
But that’s not all – the second episode, “Death in the Heartlands,” premiering on August 7, 2024, takes a harrowing look at the murders of three female runners in Kenya, allegedly at the hands of their partners or coaches. The episode delves into the world of elite running, where athletes are pushed to their limits, and sometimes, tragedy strikes.
The documentary features interviews with Yale academic Dr. Yetsa Tuakli-Wosornu, who sheds light on the culture of elite sport and its dark underbelly. Other interviews include law enforcement officials, coaches, and family members of the victims, all of whom provide a shocking glimpse into the world of athletics.
Perretta sums up the series, saying, “Dark Side of Glory puts the spotlight on the real voices behind these cases, from the relentless Durban police team that brought Joseph Ntshongwana to justice, to the courageous friends and families of Agnes Tirop, Edith Muthoni, and Damaris Muthee, who exposed the exploitation of female athletes. These are raw, powerful, and shocking stories.”
