'Work of hyperbole': Real-life Martha criticizes Netflix's 'Baby Reindeer'
Fiona Harvey, the alleged real-life inspiration for Martha Scott in Netflix's acclaimed true-crime series Baby Reindeer, has publicly criticized the show's depiction of her. In her first public interview on Piers Morgan Uncensored, she labeled the series a "work of hyperbole." She denied many details presented in the popular show and felt compelled to speak out after being targeted on social media with harassment and threats.
Harvey denied all allegations of stalking and assault
Harvey revealed that her interactions with Richard Gadd, the creator and star of Baby Reindeer, were limited to a few meetings at the bar where he worked and some email exchanges. She acknowledged giving him the nickname "Baby Reindeer," but refuted ever meeting him outside of work or contacting his friends or family. Furthermore, she denied allegations of heckling Gadd or assaulting his girlfriend. In the show, Martha traumatizes Donny (Gadd) to no end.
Harvey described impact of show as 'obscene' and 'horrifying'
Harvey has described the impact of the show on her life as "obscene" and "horrifying." "It's been absolutely horrendous. I wouldn't give credence to something like that, and it's not really my kind of drama," she said. "Very, very defamatory to me. Very career damaging, and I wanted to report that completely on this show. I'm not a stalker," she asserted. The show premiered on Netflix on April 11 and stars Jessica Gunning as Martha.
'He asked me to sleep with him'
Harvey further revealed, "He asked me to sleep with him. He said, 'Would I like my curtains fixed and I laughed and he said, 'That's a euphemism. Do you want me to come home with you?' I said, 'I've got a boyfriend.' I gave him the brush-off." The curtain euphemism has been used in the show, too. She also called him a "misogynist," raising questions about his behavior and the veracity of his claims.
Harvey threatened legal action against 'Baby Reindeer'
Harvey has threatened to sue the Netflix series for defamation. However, the show, based on Gadd's experiences as a survivor of stalking and abuse, includes a disclaimer stating it is based on a true story but acknowledges that specific details have been altered for creative and legal reasons. Some of the disputed details, such as Martha receiving jail time, were already confirmed by Gadd as fictional elements added to the narrative.
Harvey's identity unveiled despite show's efforts
Despite the show's efforts to protect the identity of Gadd's stalker by changing her name, internet users began circulating rumors that Harvey was the real Martha. This led her to confirm her identity publicly. However, Gadd has requested viewers not to speculate on Martha or Darrien's (Gadd's molester) real identities. The defamation allegations are complicated by the fact that the show never intended to reveal Harvey's identity and didn't use her real name either.
