Richard Gadd is looking at the ‘dangers of repression’

Richard Gadd is looking at the ‘dangers of repression’

From Fresh Air by NPR

April 30, 2026 · 43 min

About this episode

Richard Gadd discusses his new HBO series 'Half Man' and the themes of toxic masculinity and fame, while Maureen Corrigan recommends three playful novels.

‘Baby Reindeer’ was an unexpected hit on Netflix in 2024. Now its creator and star is back with ‘Half Man,’ an HBO series about two boys who become brothers after their mothers fall in love in 1980s Scotland. Gadd spoke with Tonya Mosley about exploring toxic masculinity, becoming famous overnight, and bombing stand-up sets. Also, book critic Maureen Corrigan recommends three playful novels: ‘Yesteryear,’ ‘American Fantasy,’ and ‘Enormous Wings.’ See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

People in this episode

Host: Tonya Mosley

Guest: Richard Gadd

Topics covered

  • toxic masculinity
  • fame
  • stand-up comedy
  • brotherhood
  • playful novels

Keywords

  • Richard Gadd
  • Half Man
  • toxic masculinity
  • stand-up comedy
  • playful novels

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: HBO

Books & works: Baby Reindeer, Half Man, Yesteryear, American Fantasy, Enormous Wings

Places: Scotland

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