The spotlight once again fell on Dr. Nandipha Magudumana as she appeared in the Free State High Court on Friday, 19 September 2025, alongside convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester and several co-accused. The group, which includes former prison officials, gathered for what is expected to be the final pretrial hearing in the sensational prison escape case.
While the courtroom proceedings carried weighty legal implications, much of the public conversation was sparked not by the legal arguments but by Magudumana’s striking court appearance. Dressed in an immaculately tailored black suit with a light-blue collared shirt, she completed the look with a golden-yellow scarf, long red nails, and freshly plaited braids. Her accessories included a Louis Vuitton Pochette handbag, a brown 2025 diary, and a Bible, which immediately drew attention and debate online.
Fashion Meets Courtroom Drama
A video posted by journalist Linda Mnisi captured the moment Magudumana entered the courtroom. In leg irons yet exuding composure, she walked confidently to the dock, prompting widespread reaction across social media platforms. Mnisi captioned the video:
“Dressed to the nines and in leg irons, Dr. Nandipha Magudumana arrives in court for the Thabo Bester prison escape case.”
The aesthetician’s appearance sparked comparisons to her previous court outings, where she had often looked visibly distressed. This time, however, she appeared more composed, polished, and seemingly intentional about the image she projected. Observers noted her serious demeanor after briefly chatting with her legal representative, although one of her co-accused, CCTV technician Teboho Lipholo, was seen pulling out a chair for her—an act that also attracted public curiosity.
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Mixed Reactions From Mzansi
South Africans flooded social media with opinions, ranging from admiration to suspicion. Some users praised her beauty and resilience, while others questioned how she managed to maintain her appearance while in custody.
One user quipped, “That Netflix money clocked in,” alluding to the recently released documentary Beauty and the Bester, which Magudumana unsuccessfully attempted to block from streaming. Another wrote, “I can still save her,” while others joked about her looking like a flight attendant.
Skeptics highlighted her Bible as a strategic accessory, asking whether it was a genuine reflection of her faith or part of a carefully constructed image. Comments also drew attention to her body language, particularly her interactions with her father, who is also implicated in the case.
The Netflix Connection
Magudumana’s appearance came just days after explosive details emerged regarding her attempt to stop Netflix from airing Beauty and the Bester. Court documents revealed that she allegedly had a business relationship with the streaming giant, adding a layer of irony to her bid to suppress the show.
As the case moves closer to trial, Magudumana continues to capture public imagination—not just for her alleged role in one of South Africa’s most audacious prison escapes, but also for the way she presents herself under scrutiny.
Conclusion
While the legal stakes for Magudumana remain high, her courtroom fashion choices and demeanor have added yet another dimension to the public narrative. To some, she appears defiant and determined; to others, her polished appearance is a calculated attempt to sway public perception. Whatever the interpretation, one thing is clear: Dr. Nandipha Magudumana remains one of the most watched—and discussed—figures in South Africa today.
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