Baby Reindeer and Ethics: Piers Morgan’s Controversial Interview Under Scrutiny
Viewers of Baby Reindeer are raising concerns over the ethics surrounding Piers Morgan’s interview with the woman whose alleged campaign of stalking and harassment inspired the hit series.
A Revealing Encounter
This week, renowned broadcaster Piers Morgan revealed that he had spoken to the Scottish lawyer linked to the character labeled the “real Martha” in the series. The exclusive interview is set to air on Morgan’s YouTube show Uncensored on Thursday (8 May).
However, the lawyer, named Harvey, has expressed feelings of being manipulated and “used” by Morgan. She alleges that he placed “a heavy emphasis” on the thousands of emails she allegedly sent to Baby Reindeer creator and lead star, Richard Gadd.
The Phenomenon of Baby Reindeer
Netflix’s Baby Reindeer tells the story of a comedian, relentlessly stalked and harassed by Martha Scott for over four years. The series, released on 11 April, has become a word-of-mouth sensation and is on track to be one of the streaming service’s most-watched shows, standing alongside heavyweights like Stranger Things and Bridgerton.
Harvey, who has received death threats following the show’s release, suggests that Morgan capitalized on the furore. In an interview with the Daily Record, she stated, “It seemed to me that I was set up. I feel a bit used.”
These claims align with the overall sentiment towards Morgan’s interview. The announcement of the “world exclusive” incited consternation among users who regarded it as “irresponsible” and “unethical.” Richard Gadd himself previously described the real-life inspiration behind Martha as “mentally unwell.”
Reactions and Criticism
Users took to various platforms to express their disapproval of the interview, highlighting the vulnerable position of Harvey and branding the interview as “disgraceful” and “absolutely vile.” The Independent reached out to Morgan’s Uncensored for a comment, but no response has been received yet.
Industry Recognition and Awards Buzz
In a separate event held in Los Angeles, Richard Gadd, Jessica Gunning, Nava Mau, and series director Weronika Tofilska took part in a panel discussion about Baby Reindeer. The event aimed to generate interest among Hollywood’s TV awards voters, as both Gadd and Gunning are widely anticipated to receive Emmy and Golden Globe nominations in the upcoming awards season.
