Theres a difference between a project being a true story and being based on a true story. And Netflix is learning this the hard way. Richard Gadd’s Baby Reindeer showcases a character that is based off of a real person. But of course, for theatrics, the show exaggerated many of the characters actions, and because of that, they are facing a lawsuit for defamation.
The plaintiff, Fiona Harvey, is the “inspiration” for a severely disturbing character in the story. The character in the show has done some pretty bad things and is convicted for the same. These include stalking a person, sexual assault, and physical assault. Smashing a bottle and gouging out eyes. But here’s the thing: Fiona herself never did anything like this.
Given that this isn’t some case in which a random person finds their lives match the trajectory of a character, This is her life, and to be portrayed for something heinous is not the legacy anyone would wish to carry. Still, Netflix’s claim is straight: this will not stop the right of the showrunner to tell a story. Now that the story has six Emily’s under its belt, sure Netflix wouldn’t want to be dismissed in the court of law like this.
The fact is straight: Netflix should have been careful with its wording; if it had been the plain old “based on a true story,” the platform wouldn’t be facing legal troubles. As of now, Netflix did get support from the judge in some matters. However, the case still is not in Netflix’s favor as a whole.
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