Ep 45. The Rise and Fall of Oscar Pistorius

The episode "The Rise and Fall of Oscar Pistorius" of Dateline season 28 follows the tragic story of Oscar Pistorius, once a beloved South African Olympic athlete and national hero, now a convicted murderer. The episode chronicles Pistorius' path to fame, from his early childhood and the traumatic amputation of both his legs to becoming a world-renowned runner, inspiring millions with his perseverance and skill.

But the episode also reveals the darker side of Pistorius' personality, including his love of guns and violent outbursts. Through interviews with Pistorius' family, friends, and former associates, as well as footage and photos of his personal life, Dateline provides insight into the psychological factors that may have led to Pistorius' violent actions.

The episode also investigates the tragic events of Valentine's Day 2013, when Pistorius shot and killed his girlfriend, model and law graduate Reeva Steenkamp, through a bathroom door in his home. Interviews with Steenkamp's family and friends shed light on her personality, ambitions, and relationship with Pistorius.

Throughout the investigation, the episode features footage from Pistorius' high-profile trial, along with interviews with legal experts and journalists who followed the case. The trial revealed a complex web of evidence and testimony, ranging from Pistorius' own emotional breakdowns on the stand to forensic evidence and cellphone records.

In the end, the episode reveals the ultimate fate of Pistorius, who was ultimately found guilty of murder and sentenced to prison. But the story doesn't end there - Dateline follows up with interviews with Pistorius' family and friends, who describe their ongoing struggle to come to terms with his actions and their implications for his legacy.

Overall, "The Rise and Fall of Oscar Pistorius" is a compelling and tragic story of a once-beloved athlete whose personal demons ultimately led to his downfall. Dateline's thorough investigation and insightful interviews provide a captivating portrait of both the man and the events that changed his life - and South Africa's - forever.