Richard Gadd’s Upcoming HBO Series Adds Jamie Bell as Co-Star
Photo courtesy of Netflix
Richard Gadd, creator and star of Netflix’s Baby Reindeer, has set his next project at HBO, co-produced by BBC. The series, titled Half Man and written and starring Gadd, will co-star BAFTA Award winner Jamie Bell (All of Us Strangers).
Half Man follows lifelong friends (and potential brothers—BBC’s press releases calls them that, but puts the word in quotes) Niall (Jamie Bell) and Ruben (Richard Gadd) as their tumultuous and estranged relationship is reignited when Ruben unexpectedly shows up at Niall’s wedding, leading to a violent confrontation. Spanning nearly 40 years, the series explores the highs and lows of their bond, capturing the complexities of their friendship from adolescence to adult fallout. Set against the backdrop of a changing city and world, Half Man delves into what it truly means to be a man, per BBC.
Gadd shared via press release that Bell was his first choice for the role. “When I wrote the show,” Gadd commented, “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.”
Regarding his casting in Half Man, Bell shared, “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.”
Alexandra Brodski (Rivals) and Eshref Reybrouck (Cheyenne & Lola) will direct Half Man. Gadd will executive produce alongside Tally Garner (Chloe), Wendy Griffin (The Outrun), Gaynor Holmes (Vigil), Morven Reid (Pure), and Gavin Smith (Granite Harbour).
The series comes months after Gadd’s Baby Reindeer became a cultural phenomenon, amassing roughly 88 million views as of June 2024. Baby Reindeer also took home six Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Limited Series and Outstanding Lead Actor for Gadd.
Half Man is set to begin filming in 2025 in Scotland and will premiere in 2026.
For all the latest TV news, reviews, lists and features, follow @Paste_TV.