Oscar Pistorius, the former Paralympic star known for his record-setting achievements and for his infamous crime, is reportedly making efforts to start anew after his release from prison. The 38-year-old is said to be dating Rita Greyling, an attractive business management consultant from Wakkerstroom, Mpumalanga, just months after being granted parole on January 5, 2024, following nine years behind bars for the murder of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp.
The shocking circumstances surrounding Reeva's death on Valentine's Day 2013 continue to cast a long shadow over Pistorius's life. He shot her through the bathroom door, mistaking her for an intruder, according to his claim. This tragic incident drew international attention and sparked heated debates on accountability and domestic violence.
Following Pistorius's release, June Steenkamp, Reeva's mother, expressed serious concerns about his capacity for anger and the safety of Greyling. Speaking to The Sun, June stated, "I don't understand how she doesn't see a red flag about him because he has not lost his temper problem." She lamented the potential danger posed by Pistorius, who still insists his actions were unintentional.
The relationship has reignited fears for those who suffered from Pistorius's past actions. Since his imprisonment, June has been active through the Reeva Steenkamp Foundation, advocating against the abuse of women and children. She called Pistorius's new romance "painful" to witness and voiced her worries for Rita, expressing her belief he still struggles with anger management. "He was supposed to be under anger management when he was in jail," she remarked, emphasizing her doubts about his rehabilitation.
Insiders report Pistorius and Greyling had known each other through family connections for years, which may have facilitated the blossoming of their relationship. Friends of Pistorius have suggested he is making significant efforts to lay low as he navigates post-prison life, avoiding public places and focusing on rehabilitation. A source close to him stated, "He is trying to rebuild his life in a low-key way and avoids bars and restaurants and the general public and is flying under the radar."
Pistorius currently lives on the property of his wealthy uncle, Arnold, where he is under strict parole conditions. He is required to submit to random checks by the Department of Corrections, and he cannot leave the immediate vicinity without notifying local police. More controversially, he is prohibited from owning firearms and has been banned from any contact with Reeva's family, including her mother and sister.
Despite his attempts to reintegrate, it appears the stigma of being labeled "toxic" may hinder Pistorius's job prospects significantly. Friends disclosed his difficulties in finding employment, stating he was viewed negatively by potential employers due to his past. Instead of seeking employment, he has opted to volunteer at the Dutch Reform Church nearby, where he engages with his family's longstanding connections.
Adding to the complexity of their new relationship, Rita Greyling's family has faced their own tragedies, reportedly bringing the two families closer together. Last year, her brother Ghini was involved in an incident resulting in the death of Willem Kruger, 29, which is now being investigated as potential homicide. The intertwining of both families’ misfortunes adds layers of complexity to their connection.
While Rita is working to establish her career, Pistorius is still grappling with the weight of his past. The new couple's relationship marks what both might hope to be fresh beginnings following tumultuous experiences. Insiders believe their shared experiences of grief and loss may have allowed them to create their bond.
Oscar has avoided the media spotlight since his release but remains firmly under scrutiny. His previous role as the world's first double amputee to compete at the Olympics is often overshadowed by the heinous act he committed. Even as his life repositions itself, it is clear the chains of his past continue to impact his present life.
Public opinion remains sharply divided about Pistorius's new chapter. Some view his parole and romantic pursuits with skepticism, echoing sentiments from those close to the case who argue he has not yet taken full responsibility for his actions. Others cautiously hope Pistorius has matured through his experiences and can now contribute positively to society.
Nevertheless, Reeva Steenkamp's tragic fate lingers over every aspect of his life. The world watches closely as Oscar Pistorius attempts to navigate this new path, grappling with the legacy of his past and the hopes of those waiting for genuine accountability and transformation.
