'The Interview': ‘Baby Reindeer’ Exploded Richard Gadd's Life. It Also Set Him Free. - The Daily Recap

Podcast: The Daily

Published: 2026-03-21

Guests: Richard Gadd

What Happened

Richard Gadd's Netflix show 'Baby Reindeer' drew from his personal experiences of sexual assault and stalking, becoming one of Netflix's most critically acclaimed and popular shows. The process of creating and starring in the show was both destabilizing and healing for Gadd, as he navigated the challenges of being a recognizable figure associated with his trauma.

Gadd is set to release a new show, 'Half Man,' on HBO, which examines masculinity, emotional abuse, and trauma through the characters Niall, played by Jamie Bell, and Reuben, portrayed by Gadd himself. To prepare for his role, Gadd gained 50 pounds of muscle, working out six days a week and adhering to a strict diet, though this transformation also brought challenges like body dysmorphia and insecurity.

At 36, Richard Gadd describes himself as a self-conscious and reclusive person, who has found that fame often leads to discomfort rather than resolution of internal issues. He believes that societal repressions contribute to broken masculinity and finds liberation in openly discussing his traumatic experiences through art.

Gadd talks about the existential crisis he faced after his abuse, feeling disconnected and experiencing a 'hole in the soul.' Despite these struggles, he found art as a means to search for meaning and answers, advising others to write down their experiences as a form of dealing with trauma.

Public exposure from 'Baby Reindeer' has impacted Gadd's self-consciousness but also facilitated personal growth. He reflects on finding freedom in vulnerability and openness, referencing the line 'freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose' from Janis Joplin's song 'Me and Bobby McGee.'

Gadd has spent significant time alone, which he sees as beneficial for self-discovery and self-acceptance. He acknowledges that life is an ongoing struggle and emphasizes the importance of managing challenges rather than expecting a permanent state of peace.

Gadd explores his sexuality, noting a period of feeling asexual and confusion, which he accepted over time. He has been single for a long period, viewing it as a positive step in his personal growth.

While Gadd expresses interest in creating lighter work, he acknowledges that his art often involves processing darker themes. He hopes to eventually transcend these themes and find peace, though he admits he is not there yet. Meanwhile, he finds joy in different forms of entertainment, like Laurel and Hardy films.

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