Watch Baby Reindeer

Baby Reindeer, a chilling miniseries that premiered on Netflix in April 2024, is a psychological thriller that explores the disturbing depths of obsession and the devastating impact it can have on a person's life. Created by and starring comedian Richard Gadd, the show draws inspiration from Gadd's own experience of being stalked by a woman for several years.

The narrative centers around Donny Dunn (played by Gadd), a struggling comedian whose life takes a dark turn when he encounters Martha (played by Odessa Young) after a particularly bad performance. A seemingly innocuous act of kindness – offering her a cup of tea – sets off a chain of events that spirals into an all-consuming nightmare for Donny.

Martha becomes fixated on Donny, believing they have a special connection. She bombards him with calls, emails, and unwanted gifts, blurring the lines between harmless admiration and obsessive behavior. Donny, initially confused and overwhelmed, tries to politely distance himself from Martha's advances. However, his attempts to establish boundaries only fuel her obsession.

Baby Reindeer doesn't shy away from portraying the chilling tactics employed by stalkers. The series depicts Martha's relentless pursuit of Donny, showcasing her increasingly erratic and threatening behavior. We see her infiltrating his personal life, showing up at his stand-up gigs, and even following him home.

The miniseries delves into the psychological toll stalking takes on its victims. Donny's sense of security and privacy are shattered. He becomes paranoid, constantly looking over his shoulder, and his once carefree personality is replaced by fear and anxiety. The show explores the impact on his mental health, showcasing the emotional strain and the constant feeling of being watched.

While Martha's actions are the central focus, Baby Reindeer also explores the complexities of Donny's own character. The series hints at past traumas and unresolved issues that may contribute to his vulnerability. We see glimpses into his struggles with self-doubt and his insecurities as a comedian.

The show's strength lies in its raw and unflinching portrayal of a terrifying reality. The acting is superb, with Gadd delivering a nuanced performance that captures Donny's descent into fear and desperation. Young's portrayal of Martha is equally unsettling, perfectly conveying the character's unstable and unpredictable nature.

Baby Reindeer is not an easy watch. It's a disturbing and thought-provoking exploration of the dark side of human behavior. However, it's also a story of resilience and the fight to reclaim one's life from the grip of a relentless stalker.

Baby Reindeer is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (7 episodes). The series first aired on April 11, 2024.