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A STRUGGLING comedian’s harrowing experience with a stalker takes centre stage in the upcoming Netflix limited series Baby Reindeer set to premiere today (Apr 11). Adapted from Richard Gadd’s award-winning 2019 Edinburgh Fringe one-man play of the same name, the series delves into the psychological torment and warped reality fostered by obsession.
Richard himself stars as Donny Dunn, a down-on-his-luck comedian juggling bar shifts with uninspired routines. One night, a chance encounter with a seemingly vulnerable woman sparks an act of kindness from Donny. However, this simple gesture ignites a dangerous obsession within her, leading her to fixate on Donny and infiltrate every aspect of his life.
Directed by the collaborative duo of Weronika Tofilska and Josephine Bornebusch, Baby Reindeer sheds the lighthearted expectations associated with the title and explores the chilling descent into fear and paranoia that Donny experiences as his stalker’s attentions escalate.
“The series isn’t a typical stalker thriller,” Richard said in a recent interview.
“It’s more about the internal struggle, the erosion of your sense of self when someone becomes fixated on you.”
Early buzz suggests the series is attracting praise for its unflinching portrayal of Donny’s vulnerability and the slow-burning psychological horror that unfolds.
It also delves into the impact this ordeal has on Donny’s comedic career. His once-uninspired jokes take on a new edge, reflecting the darkness that now consumes him. This adds a layer of complexity to the character, showcasing the struggle between artistic expression and the crippling anxiety caused by his stalker’s presence.
Beyond the central performance, Baby Reindeer boasts a strong creative team. Clerkenwell Films, known for their work on critically acclaimed dramas like Peaky Blinders, handles production. The series is also bolstered by the direction of Weronika and Josephine, who have established themselves as rising talents in European cinema.
With its exploration of a disturbing reality and its potential to spark conversations about obsession and mental health, Baby Reindeer is poised to become a must-watch for fans of psychological dramas.
