Richard Gadd reveals Half Man, his first series after the success of Baby Reindeer

Bebé Reno became one of the biggest phenomena on Netflix in 2024 and catapulted Richard Gadd's career. After that impact, the actor and screenwriter is switching platforms and presenting Half Man, his new series for HBO Max.

The company is already sharing the first two photos: one features Gadd and the other Jamie Bell, remembered for Billy Elliot and Jumper, who joins as co-star.

Plot and characters of Half Man

The story follows the estranged "brothers" Niall (Bell) and Ruben (Gadd). Everything begins when Ruben crashes Niall's wedding and triggers a violent confrontation that opens the door to a journey spanning four decades.

The series travels from the 1980s to the present day, with Mitchell Robertson and Stuart Campbell portraying the younger versions of the protagonists. The narrative explores the complex relationship between the two: turbulent adolescences, reconciliations, breakups, and lessons that mark the passage of time.

Additionally, Half Man depicts the transformation of a city and offers a reflection on what it means to be a man in different historical contexts.

Production and release

The drama consists of six episodes and is a co-production between HBO and the BBC. Richard Gadd not only stars, but also writes and serves as executive producer. The direction is handled by Alexandra Brodski and Eshref Reybrouck.

The cast includes Neve McIntosh, Marianne McIvor, Charlie De Melo, Bilal Hasna, Amy Manson, Philippine Velge, Stuart McQuarrie, among others.

The series is produced under the Mam Tor Productions (Banijay UK) banner, with support from Screen Scotland. Banijay Rights is responsible for international distribution.

The global premiere is scheduled for 2026: it will be available on HBO Max in the United States, Latin America, and Europe. Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom and Ireland it will be released through BBC iPlayer, BBC One, and BBC Scotland.