‘Die Byl’ played by Waldemar Schultz. Picture: Supplied.
“Die Byl” is a South African crime drama that first aired on kykNET in 2016.
Loosely inspired by the work of legendary detective Piet Byleveld, the show follows Colonel Piet van der Bijl (played by Waldemar Schultz), nicknamed Die Byl, a brilliant but deeply flawed investigator known for his ability to crack complex murder cases.
The series combines intense psychological drama with gripping crime storytelling, making it a firm favourite among viewers.
The character delves into the darker side of human nature, often solving gruesome crimes by understanding the minds of the killers.
With its dark themes and layered storytelling, the show has consistently kept audiences on the edge of their seats.
As it returns for its sixth season in January, it makes history as kykNET’s longest-running drama.
The upcoming season pits Die Byl and his team against a relentless serial killer who uses disturbing methods to convey their twisted sense of justice.
The story begins with two bodies discovered at different locations, each accompanied by burned-out matches — a sinister calling card that sets the tone for a season filled with tension and shocking twists.
The team also tackles other challenging cases, including a grandfather bullying his grandson and a celebrated author hiding a dark secret.
Returning cast members include Marvin-Lee Beukes as Juan, Lika Berning as Lena, Milan Murray as Nicki, Amalia Uys as Jo, and Tyrone Keogh as profiler Capt. William Miller.
Marcel van Heerden continues his role as Dr Anton Fourie, a pathologist introduced in season five.
New faces bring fresh intrigue, with Melissa Willering as the hyper-intelligent Eliaan Slee and Roeline Daneel as the ambitious Dr Elize Opperman.
The cast also features familiar favourites like Melanie du Bois, Hannes van Wyk, Johan and Lida Botha.
The series’ success is rooted in its strong creative team. Originally developed by the late Herman Binge and Elmarie Botha, with the late Leon Kruger taking over as head writer from season two, the sixth season is written by Elmarie Botha, Berdene Burger, and Lorraine Burger.
Directors Berdene Burger, Liezl Spies, and Nina Swart ensure a visually captivating experience, complemented by meticulous cinematography, sound design and set work.
“The sixth season of ‘Die Byl’ promises to be the most intense and gripping one yet,” said story planner and producer Elmarie Botha.
Schultz, the show’s lead, shared: “I am extremely excited about the upcoming series of ‘Die Byl’. I think this one will have viewers watching through their fingers! I am also so proud to have worked with a fantastic team of co-actors and production crew to create another season of thrilling episodes."
∎The sixth season of “Die Byl” premières on on kykNET (DStv channel 144) on January 14, 2025, at 8pm. It will also be available on DStv Stream and Catch Up.