BBC Orders Oscar Pistorius Documentary

LONDON -- The BBC's BBC Three network has ordered a documentary on South African Paralympics star Oscar Pistorius and the death of his girlfriend.

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Pistorius has been in the headlines since he shot model Reeva Steenkamp to death at their home last week. The athlete says he thought he was firing at an intruder; prosecutors allege premediatation.

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BBC Three said Thursday that it commissioned Mentorn Media to produce the hourlong "fast-turnaround" special. It will be presented by Rick Edwards, who hosted the Paralympics for Britain's Channel 4 in the fall.

The network didn't immediately announce an expected broadcast date.

"BBC Three is never afraid to tackle current affairs, and we are committed to showing bold, thought-provoking programs for 16-to-34-year olds," said BBC Three controller Zai Bennett. "Mentorn will be producing this program at incredible speed. … I’m sure they will deliver a documentary that will bring a new angle to this ever-developing news story."

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Said executive producer Steve Anderson: "The story of Oscar Pistorius and Reeva Steenkamp has captured everyone’s attention. It is hugely important, and Mentorn has the expertise to deliver it quickly to BBC Three.”

Passion Distribution will presell the Pistorius documentary internationally.

Pistorius won two gold medals and a silver medal at the Paralympic Games in London last year and also raced in the Summer Olympics. His case has been covered by media around the world.

Mentorn previously produced a special on Hurricane Sandy for BBC Three.

Email: Georg.Szalai@thr.com

Twitter: @georgszalai