The drama surrounding the hit Netflix series Baby Reindeer has taken a dark turn as the lawyer of a woman suing the streaming giant has called its recent Emmy nominations a “slap in the face.” Fiona Harvey, a Scottish woman who has a history with Richard Gadd, the writer and lead actor of the drama, is taking legal action against Netflix for defamation, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence, and gross negligence.
Harvey’s lawyer, Richard Roth, has spoken out against the recognition Baby Reindeer has received, stating that it is a “slap in the face” for his client who he claims has faced “life-changing tragedy” as a result of the “brutal lies” depicted in the show. Roth has expressed the belief that the series should not have been nominated for Emmys while the legal battle is ongoing, as he believes Netflix’s claim that Baby Reindeer is based on a true story is “clearly false.”
Impact on the Plaintiff
According to Roth, Harvey, who resides in London, has been living in fear since the show aired, afraid to go out in public due to the harassment she has faced. He stated that she has received death threats online and has been subjected to verbal abuse in the streets, causing her extreme distress. Roth emphasized that Harvey’s life has been unjustly turned upside down by the false portrayal of her in Baby Reindeer.
In response to the alleged defamation, Harvey filed a lawsuit seeking $170 million in damages in the Californian District Court. The supporting document for the claim outlines the severe emotional and physical toll the situation has taken on Harvey, describing her as “physically weak” and listing various mental and physical health issues she has experienced as a result of the false portrayal in the show.
A spokesperson for Netflix has stated that the company plans to vigorously defend against the lawsuit and stands by Richard Gadd’s right to tell his story through Baby Reindeer. The streaming giant has maintained that the show’s portrayal is based on real events and maintains that they have the right to share such stories with their audience.
The legal battle comes at a time when Baby Reindeer has garnered significant recognition, with the show receiving a total of 11 Emmy nominations, solidifying its status as one of the breakout hits of 2024. The nominations include categories such as best limited or anthology series, with Richard Gadd being recognized for his lead actor performance and writing.
The legal battle surrounding Baby Reindeer has added a layer of controversy to the show’s success, highlighting the real-world implications of storytelling and the impact it can have on individuals. As the legal proceedings unfold, the future of the show and its creators remains uncertain amidst the backdrop of award nominations and public scrutiny.