'Baby Reindeer' star Richard Gadd to star in new BBC and HBO drama

They'll star in 'Half Man' due for release next year.

The BBC has unveiled the cast for Half Man, an original six-episode drama series created by Emmy-winning Richard Gadd (known for Baby Reindeer and Against The Law), who also stars in the show. Gadd will be joined by BAFTA-winning actor Jamie Bell (All of Us Strangers, Rocketman). The series, produced by Mam Tor Productions (a Banijay UK company) for BBC and BBC Scotland in partnership with HBO, will be filmed in Scotland starting in 2025. HBO will also broadcast the series in the United States.

Half Man centers on estranged ‘brothers’ Niall (Jamie Bell) and Ruben (Richard Gadd). When Ruben unexpectedly appears at Niall’s wedding, their reunion triggers a violent outburst that sends the story spiraling through their shared history. Spanning nearly 40 years, from the 1980s to the present, the series explores the complexities of their relationship, from their teenage years to their eventual estrangement, depicting the full spectrum of their emotional journey—good, bad, funny, painful, and everything in between. Set against the backdrop of a city—and world—undergoing rapid change, Half Man delves into the challenging question: What does it truly mean to be a man?

Richard Gadd, creator, writer and executive producer, says: “I am delighted to confirm I will be playing Ruben in the newly crowned Half Man for the BBC / HBO alongside the incomparable Jamie Bell. When I wrote the show, I did it with him in mind, never thinking for a second we would manage to land him. So I could not be happier for everything that has come to pass in getting him on board. He is one of the greatest actors of his generation and I am so looking forward to seeing what he does with the role. Thanks to all the staff at the BBC, HBO, and Mam Tor Productions for making it all happen. I cannot wait to work with you all in the months ahead.”

Jamie Bell says: “I’m so excited to join this incredible creative team. Richard has once again crafted something poignant and singular. I’m honored to have been asked to bring this to life with him.”

Kara Buckley, Senior Vice President HBO Drama Programming, says: “Like so many others, we were wowed by Richard Gadd's acting prowess in ‘Baby Reindeer’, and have long admired Jamie Bell. We simply can’t think of a better duo to bring this powerful story to life.”

The series will comprise of six, 45 minute episodes.