BBC’s new Glasgow-set drama ‘spanning from the ’80s’ shares first look with Richard Gadd

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A first look at the BBC’s new Richard Gadd drama Half Man has been unveiled.

In a straightforward and accessible manner, the creator of the show “Baby Reindeer” is both the writer and lead actor in a Glasgow-based series. This series explores the bond between characters Ruben (played by Gadd) and Niall (portrayed by Jamie Bell), tracing their relationship over nearly four decades, from the 1980s right up to the present day.

Initially, a photograph captures them seated opposite each other, with an air of tension filling their meeting at a casual eatery. Additionally, we get separate close-ups depicting both individuals separately.

In the first shot, they are seen sitting face to face in a tense conversation within a diner setting, while individual shots of each character independently are also presented.

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Half Man delves into the ups and downs of the friendship between Ruben and Niall, spanning from their tumultuous teenage years to their eventual estrangement as adults. This journey encompasses a multitude of experiences, ranging from joyous and humorous instances to confrontational and trying times.

The series delves into the dynamic pulsation of an evolving city, reflecting broader global transformations, and explores the essence of masculinity. (Paraphrased)

The show additionally features Neve McIntosh from “All Creatures Great & Small” as Niall’s mother Lori, and Marianne McIvor known for “Screw” as Maura, Ruben’s mother. Mitchell Robertson, known for “Curfew”, and Stuart Campbell from “SAS Rogue Heroes” will play the younger versions of Niall and Ruben respectively.

The performers Charlie De Melo from competing shows, Bilal Hasna known for “Black Mirror”, Julie Cullen from “Traces”, Amy Manson of “The Nevers”, Philippine Velge starring in “The Serpent Queen”, Stuart McQuarrie and Piers Ewart from their respective roles in “The Rig” and “The Primrose Railway Children”, Scot Greenan of “T2 Trainspotting”, and newcomers Charlotte Blackwood and Calum Manchip, are all part of this production.

Previously discussing the cast, Gadd mentioned, “After searching extensively and encountering some truly extraordinary talent our country holds, I am thrilled to have assembled the team that we now have.

I am excitedly anticipating the moment when all our actors, both young and old, breathe life into their respective characters. I am confident that they will win over the audience just as they have won me over.

Half Man will premiere on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in 2026.

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2025-08-20 19:49