Netflix is no stranger to breakout hits, but Baby Reindeer was a surprise hit and is on the road to becoming one of the most-watched series on the platform. Written by and starring comedian Richard Gadd, it has rapidly become one of Netflix's most popular shows.
Released on April 11, the autobiographical series has captivated audiences with its raw and intense narrative, based on Gadd's real-life experience with a stalker.
Baby Reindeer Rise to the Top
According to Deadline, Baby Reindeer racked up 18 million views between April 29 and May 5, totalling 56.5 million within 26 days of its release. This rapid viewership growth has set it on a trajectory to break into the platform's top 10 most-watched shows.
Baby Reindeer needs an additional 27 million views in the remaining 65 days of its 91-day premiere window to make the list. It will join shows like The Witcher and Bridgerton if it achieves this milestone. Currently, Wednesday holds the top spot with an astounding 252.1 million views.
Related: Baby Reindeer's Real-Life Martha Says She's The Victim; Tells Her Side of The Story
Everyone’s Curiosity about the True Events of Baby Reindeer
Baby Reindeer follows the story of Donny Dunn, a struggling comedian who meets a seemingly lonely woman, Martha, at the bar where he works. What begins as a sympathetic cup of tea quickly spirals into a nightmarish experience as Martha reveals herself to be a relentless stalker.
The series has garnered critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of trauma, assault, and the idea that there is no such thing as a perfect victim. It has also sparked intense curiosity among fans, who have attempted to identify the real people behind the story.
Gadd has been vocal about the need to protect the identities of those involved, emphasising that speculation about their true identities is not the point of the series. He has clarified on his Instagram that Darrien, who sexually assaults his character, is not based on Sean Foley.
Related: Who is Hugh Coles, and who plays Francis in Baby Reindeer? Where You've Seen Him Before
The Real-Life Martha Going on the Record
Despite Gadd's efforts to maintain anonymity, Scottish lawyer Fiona Harvey, 58, has been identified by fans as the “real Martha.” The revelation has led to death threats against Harvey, prompting her to speak out on Piers Morgan Uncensored to set the record straight after being unmasked by fans. The announcement of this interview has been controversial, with many questioning the ethics of such public scrutiny.
As Baby Reindeer continues its climb to Netflix's all-time top ten, the story behind the story becomes as intriguing as the show itself. Richard Gadd's journey, combined with the compelling narrative, ensures that Baby Reindeer will be remembered as one of the most surprising and captivating hits of 2024.
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