Richard Gadd, star of Baby Reindeer, has finally addressed the lawsuit filed against Netflix by Fiona Harvey, who he claims to be the real-life inspiration for his character ‘Martha’. Gadd has shared his version of their alleged experiences.
The streaming platform is seeking to have Fiona Harvey’s high-profile $170 million lawsuit thrown out, and Gadd seems to be fully backing Netflix in this matter.
Gadd submitted a declaration to federal court in response to the lawsuit, providing detailed allegations against Harvey and asserting his own fear for his safety.
“According to Gadd (via Variety), I was filled with panic and paranoia. The thought of encountering her on tubes and buses terrified me.”
“My genuine concern was that she would cause harm to me and my parents, with my parents being of particular concern. In summary, her behavior had a significant impact on my physical and mental well-being.”
The court filing states that Gadd and Harvey first encountered each other at the Hawley Arms in 2014. In 2016, Gadd reported Harvey to the police, claiming that he had received numerous distressing and sexually explicit emails and voicemails from her. As a result, Harvey was issued a First Instance Harassment Warning, which led to a significant decrease in communication between the two.
Although the Netflix series purports to be based on a true story, there are several differences from real life. In the show, Martha (portrayed by Jessica Gunning) sexually and physically assaults Donny (played by Gadd), and also stalks a police officer and Donny’s residence. Harvey argues that these depictions, among others, are defamatory.
During her appearance on Piers Morgan Uncensored, Harvey claimed that the portrayal of events was “a work of fiction and hyperbole,”refuting nearly every aspect except for the creation of the moniker Baby Reindeer.
Upon reviewing the filing, it is clear that Gadd’s recollection of Harvey’s behavior at the Hawley Arms and their interactions mirror the events portrayed in the show.
“According to him, Harvey’s potential actions scared him. Despite his efforts, she remained unfazed and he recalls spending long shifts in the balcony or basement, waiting for her to leave.”
Overall, the past few years have been filled with constant and unrelenting behaviors, causing immense stress and worry.
Craig Seymour, the ex-general manager of the Hawley Arms pub, and Laura Wray, the spouse of late Jimmy Wray, a Scottish member of Parliament, have both provided statements in support of Netflix.
Wray discloses that she obtained an “interim interdict”(similar to a restraining order) following purportedly five years of persistent harassment.
You can also view all of Fiona Harvey’s tweets, her real name, and the authenticity of the viral breakdown video of Richard Gadd. Additionally, you can browse other shows to watch, such as Baby Reindeer.
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