Baby Reindeer creator Richard Gadd says telling story about sexual assault ‘saved my life’
The IndependentFor free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Baby Reindeer creator Richard Gadd has said that making a show about his own experiences of being sexually assaulted provided him with a lifeline after grappling with his trauma in silence. It’s mad that it happened that way.” open image in gallery ‘Baby Reindeer’ is based on Gadd’s real-life experiences of stalking and sexual assault “It’s clearly struck a chord,” he says. “I really did believe in it, but it’s taken off so quickly that I do feel a bit windswept.” Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. Certainly when I shook off that idea, and realised that speaking out and saying ‘I’m struggling’ is a form of strength, sloughing off the idea that masculinity was the only form of survival – that was very healing.” open image in gallery Richard Gadd in ‘Baby Reindeer’ If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123, email [email protected], or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.