Richard Gadd’s acclaimed Netflix series has garnered remarkable success, prompting curiosity about Richard Gadd’s upcoming project.
The new television show features Gadd (who is also the writer and director) in the role of Donny, an aspiring comedian and bartender who feels sympathy for Martha Scott (Jessica Gunning), a struggling “lawyer” who enters his pub in tears and isolation. This encounter sets off a series of catastrophic events, leading Martha to develop a profound, sexually charged, and violent obsession with him that influences every facet of his existence.
Although the characters are fictional, the storyline is rooted in Gadd’s true-life experience of stalking and abuse (beyond just the actions of his stalker).
Originally presented through his one-man play at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2019, Baby Reindeer has become a significant hit on Netflix. So, are there plans for a second season?
Will there be a Baby Reindeer Season 2?
No, Baby Reindeer will not be returning for Season 2. It was designed as a limited series, meaning there was no intention for another season from the start — and considering the story’s nature, it’s quite improbable that Gadd would pen additional episodes.
In light of the show’s aftermath, Fiona Harvey (the real-life Martha) has ignited considerable conversation through her tweets to Richard and her guest appearance on Piers Morgan’s show. However, it is very unlikely that this narrative could evolve into a second season of the original series, especially since Harvey filed a $170 million lawsuit against Netflix in June.
Baby Reindeer received significant recognition at the 2024 Emmy Awards, winning four awards, which has naturally led to renewed theories suggesting Season 2 may eventually develop. However, judging by Gadd’s acceptance speech, it appears he remains devoted to keeping it a standalone narrative.
“I think if Baby Reindeer has shown anything, it’s that there’s no established formula for success. You don’t need big-name stars, proven intellectual properties, long-running series, or universal storytelling to achieve a hit,” he stated.
What is Richard Gadd’s next project after Baby Reindeer?
Gadd is currently working on Lions, a new six-part BBC series that has no ties to Baby Reindeer.
As per Screen Scotland, this series (again penned and created by Gadd) will revolve around two brothers, Niall and Ruben, whose lives are dramatically altered following an “explosion of violence” at a wedding, which “catapults us back through their lives,” according to the official synopsis.
The narrative is expected to span four decades, from the 1980s to the present day, exploring the highs and lows of the brothers’ relationship, from their teenage years to their adult conflicts — encompassing all the good, bad, terrible, humorous, angry, and challenging moments along the journey.
Unlike Baby Reindeer, this project does not appear to be based on a true story. However, Gadd is deeply passionate about it, describing the experience as “love at first sight.”
“It’s a dream come true to become part of such a historic broadcaster known for delivering exceptional comedy and drama (and comedy-drama, for that matter) to our screens. A dream that might fade when faced with strict writing deadlines and rainy filming days on the streets of Glasgow. Just kidding. I’ve never been more thrilled to work on anything in my life,” he expressed.
Lions currently lacks a release date, leaving uncertainty about whether it will premiere later in 2024 or if audiences will have to wait until 2025.
Speculation also surrounds Gadd’s potential role in the forthcoming Jurassic World sequel. While nothing is certain just yet, there are mentions of his involvement in some capacity.
How did Baby Reindeer end?
The conclusion of Baby Reindeer is marked by three pivotal moments: Martha was convicted and imprisoned; Donny received a job offer from Darrien (clearly as a form of reparation); and Donny ended the series in solitude, crying at a bar, bereft of money… just like Martha.
On the advice of the police, Donny patiently waits for Martha to leave a threatening voicemail; not merely angry or menacing, but one that could lead to criminal charges. Before long, she threatens to stab him or his family, and is arrested the following day. Along with a five-year restraining order, she faces a nine-month prison sentence.
Donny grapples with recovery from his ordeal, transforming his bedroom into a chaotic mind map filled with desperate reasoning, clues, and other details about Martha. His ex-girlfriend Keeley suggests moving back in with her mother, to which he agrees. However, while at his flat, he discovers the script for Hangman Harry, the comedy series he was creating alongside Darrien, the producer who abused him.
Upon visiting his flat, Darrien praises Donny’s earlier viral breakdown video as brave and urges him to collaborate again — assuring him it “won’t be like last time.” Donny expresses his enthusiasm, replying, “I’d love that,” before stepping outside and breaking down in tears.
In the final scene, Donny listens to some of Martha’s more benign voicemails, including one where she reveals the origin of his nickname, “Baby Reindeer”: her troubled childhood and the solace she found in a plush reindeer toy. He stops at a bar and orders a vodka and coke, only to realize he doesn’t have his wallet. The bartender reassures him it’s fine and gives him the drink for free, mirroring the series’ poignant opening scene.
Baby Reindeer is currently streaming on Netflix. Meanwhile, feel free to explore the best TV shows of 2024 thus far. If you desire similar content, check out our list of 10 shows to watch that are akin to Baby Reindeer. We can also provide you with insights on Richard Gadd’s current relationship status and share the most shocking moments from Fiona Harvey’s appearance on Piers Morgan.
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