A woman has filed a lawsuit against Netflix, claiming that the stalker character Martha in “Baby Reindeer” was based on her and has resulted in defamation and the ruination of her life since the show’s release.
“Baby Reindeer,” set in 2015, tells the “true story” of writer and creator Richard Gadd, who also stars in the series as Donny Dunn, a struggling comedian/daytime bartender.
The character Martha, played by Jessica Gunning, becomes Dunn’s stalker after he gives her a free cup of tea at a London pub, leading to escalating dangerous behavior. Despite claims that the character was fictional, Fiona Harvey believes her reputation has been tarnished, linking her to the Martha character unjustly.
Harvey’s lawsuit, filed in federal court, argues that the portrayal in “Baby Reindeer” includes defamatory lies about her, such as being convicted of a crime or assaulting Gadd. She claims the series has negatively impacted her life and is seeking $170 million in damages for defamation and emotional distress.
Netflix has stated they will vigorously defend the case, standing by Gadd’s right to share his story. The show became a hit quickly after its release, with Gadd encouraging viewers not to speculate on the real-life inspirations for the characters.
Actress Jessica Gunning has stated she had no knowledge of Gadd’s real-life stalker while portraying Martha in the series.
