“And Now She’s Dead.”: New Documentary Series Sheds Light on Femicide in Belgium

A new four-part documentary series, “And Now She’s Dead.” (En nu is ze dood.), is set to premiere on VRT Canvas in Belgium on February 23, 2026, and on VRT MAX. The series investigates the escalating issue of femicide – the intentional killing of women by a man because of her gender – and aims to expose the patterns and warning signs often missed before these tragedies occur.

Unmasking the Patterns of Femicide

Created by Phara de Aguirre and Nahid Shaikh, the documentary delves into the manipulative and controlling behaviors exhibited by perpetrators leading up to the fatal act. Shaikh brings a personal perspective to the project, drawing from her own experiences with intimate partner violence. The series features interviews with both victims and those left behind, offering a poignant seem at the devastating impact of femicide.

A Growing Awareness and Legal Framework

Femicide, historically often dismissed as crimes of passion or domestic disputes, is receiving increased attention from both the media and political spheres. Belgium introduced a framework law in 2023 to prevent and combat feminicides and gender-related killings. While official statistics based on this law will not be available until spring 2026, current figures from the website Stop Feminicide indicate that, on average, a woman is murdered every two weeks in Belgium. These victims are often killed in their own homes, places where they should perceive safe.

The Role of Authorities

“And Now She’s Dead.” likewise examines the role of law enforcement and the justice system in these cases. The filmmakers investigate what happens when victims overcome their fear and shame to report abuse, and how authorities respond. The series emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of partner violence, recognizing it not as isolated incidents but as a pattern of behavior.

A Call for Recognition and Prevention

The documentary aims to move beyond simply reporting on femicide and instead seeks to understand the underlying causes and prevent future tragedies. As stated in a past omzendbrief (circular letter) from Belgium’s prosecutors-general, partner violence is a process, not a single event. By recognizing this pattern, the series hopes to contribute to a better understanding of the issue and ultimately save lives.

“And Now She’s Dead.” will air on VRT Canvas starting February 23, 2026, at 9:25 PM, with episodes also available on VRT MAX from 6:00 PM the following week.