Netflix’s hit drama Baby Reindeer achieved major success at the Golden Globes on Sunday (5 January), with creator Richard Gadd and co-star Jessica Gunning taking home awards. The series also won Best Limited TV Series, adding to its growing list of accolades.
The dark comedy, inspired by Gadd’s real-life experiences, delves into the harrowing story of comedian Donny Dunn (played by Gadd), who is stalked by a woman (portrayed by Jessica Gunning) after a seemingly innocuous act of kindness at a pub.
Accepting the award, Gadd, who is bisexual, expressed his gratitude, saying the widespread support for the series “means the world” to him, the cast, and the production team.
“It’s an honour to tell this messed-up story to the world,” he said.
Addressing the show’s bleak tone, Gadd highlighted its importance in modern storytelling:
“For a while, there’s been this belief that stories which are too dark or complicated won’t sell and no one will watch them. I hope Baby Reindeer has proven otherwise. Every story, when done right, is universal, and even our weird, idiosyncratic struggles deserve to be seen on screen.”
He also called on streaming platforms and commissioners to prioritise diverse and unique narratives:
“When you’re totting up the numbers and putting together budgets, remember to keep some back for the little person to tell their story.”
Jessica Gunning, who plays the stalker in the series, took home the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Female Actor. The openly lesbian actress was nominated alongside stars like Liza Colón-Zayas (The Bear) and Allison Janney (The Diplomat).
Nearly stumbling on her way to the stage, Gunning joked, “You almost saw my Golden Globes.”
Reflecting on her win, she said:
“I can’t believe this is happening to me. Thank you to Richard Gadd – Baby Reindeer has changed my life in ways I can’t even explain. The eight-year-old me would be chuffed to bits.”
The Golden Globes victories add to Baby Reindeer’s remarkable achievements, which include six Emmy awards, such as Outstanding Lead Actor for Gadd.
While Gadd was nominated for Best TV Actor at the Golden Globes, the award went to Colin Farrell for his performance in The Penguin.
As Baby Reindeer continues to garner critical acclaim, it reinforces the value of bold, unconventional storytelling in television.
, with creator Richard Gadd and co-star Jessica Gunning taking home awards.){kind=link}