The bracing drama comes from Richard Gadd, a Scottish writer-actor-comedian who not only created, wrote, and stars in Baby Reindeer. He lived it. While in his 20s, he was stalked by a woman he can no longer discuss in specifics for legal reasons. He says the experience lasted about five years and overlapped with a period in which Gadd was “dealing with the aftermath of severe sexual abuse.” His mind spun in compulsive circles: “I couldn’t understand how my life had gotten to this point.
Suddenly, this project born from the most painful chapter of his life was earning favorable reviews, igniting Hollywood interest, and allowing him to quit his day job. During the run of the show, he took 74 meetings with production companies and streamers before partnering with Netflix in 2020 to make a seven-episode series. Gadd’s depiction of Martha was so nuanced and refreshing that Gadd started hearing from “big name” actresses who wanted to play her.