What is Richard Gadd's new drama 'Half Man' about?

'Half Man' is a six-part drama by Richard Gadd that explores the origins of toxic masculinity, set in the 1980s and examining the complex relationship between two men.

Who stars in the new drama 'Half Man'?

The drama stars Jamie Bell as Niall and Richard Gadd as Ruben, a character Gadd also developed.

What inspired Richard Gadd to write 'Half Man'?

Richard Gadd was inspired by the debate about toxic masculinity and sought to examine its societal roots and impact on men, particularly when experiencing trauma during their youth.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Gadd's New Drama Explores Toxic Masculinity's Roots

Gadd's New Drama Explores Toxic Masculinity's Roots

18 Apr

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Summary

New drama 'Half Man' delves into toxic masculinity's origins.
Richard Gadd stars as Ruben, a violent character with a complex past.
The series examines societal repression's impact on men.

Gadd's New Drama Explores Toxic Masculinity's Roots

Richard Gadd, acclaimed for 'Baby Reindeer,' presents 'Half Man,' a new six-part drama examining toxic masculinity and its origins. Set to premiere on Friday, April 24, 2026, the series travels back to the 1980s, predating social media but still rife with male confusion and violence.

The story centers on the 30-plus-year relationship between the introverted Niall, played by Jamie Bell, and Gadd's character, Ruben. The drama kicks off on Niall's wedding day, with Ruben's potential disruption hinting at their turbulent past. Flashbacks reveal Ruben's arrival in Niall's life as a teenager after his release from a young offenders institution, leading to a complex friendship formed through shared experiences.