Netflix's 'Baby Reindeer' Tells Harrowing True Story of Stalking Victim

Netflix's new documentary "Baby Reindeer" recounts the disturbing true story of comedian Richard Gadd and his experience being stalked by a woman he briefly met while working at a pub, free in London. The film, which Gadd wrote and performs in as a one-man show, details the relentless harassment and psychological torment he endured over a four-year period.

In 2015, Gadd was working at a pub when he met Martha, who became infatuated with him after a five-minute conversation. She began showing up at the pub frequently, waiting for Gadd and sending him messages on social media. Despite Gadd making it clear he was not interested in a relationship, Martha's behavior escalated into full-blown stalking.

Over the next several years, Martha bombarded Gadd with thousands of emails, texts, and voicemails. She created fake social media profiles to contact Gadd's friends and family. The stalking took a severe toll on Gadd's mental health, career, and relationships. He developed PTSD, depression, and a debilitating fear of leaving his apartment.

Gadd eventually went to the police and got a restraining order against Martha, but the stalking continued. It was only after Martha was arrested multiple times for violating the order that Gadd began to get his life back. He channeled his experience into writing "Baby Reindeer" as a way to process the trauma and raise awareness about the devastating impact of stalking.

Why this matters: Stalking is a serious crime that affects millions of people, causing immense psychological harm and disrupting lives. "Baby Reindeer" shines a light on the often overlooked issue and the challenges victims face in getting help and protection from their stalkers.

In the film, Gadd delivers an intense and emotionally raw performance, recounting the most harrowing moments of the ordeal and his frustrating attempts to get authorities to take the stalking seriously. "All I could think about was Martha," Gadd says in the show. "Martha was everywhere. She was omnipresent and yet invisible at the same time." The documentary serves as a sobering reminder of the very real dangers of stalking and the importance of supporting victims.

Key Takeaways

• Netflix's "Baby Reindeer" recounts comedian Richard Gadd's stalking ordeal.
• Gadd was stalked by a woman he briefly met at a pub for 4 years.
• The stalking caused Gadd severe psychological distress, PTSD, and depression.
• Gadd had to get a restraining order, but the stalking continued until the stalker's arrest.
• The documentary aims to raise awareness about the devastating impact of stalking.