S Poddar
The BBC has released details about the cast of its original six-episode drama, Half Man, by Emmy-winning creator and executive producer Richard Gadd, who is known for Baby Reindeer and Against The Law. He will be joined by the critically acclaimed BAFTA-winning actor Jamie Bell, known for his role in All of Us Strangers and Rocketman. Mam Tor Productions, in association with BBC Scotland and HBO, is all set to shoot the show from Scotland from 2025 and plans to release the series in 2026. Set over nearly four decades, Half Man tells the tumultuous relationship of two estranged “brothers,” Ruben (played by Richard Gadd) and Niall (played by Jamie Bell).
The story starts with Ruben’s surprise appearance at Niall’s wedding, sparking a dramatic unplolding of their shared history. The work takes the reader through the characters’ journey from their teenage years in the 1980s and their falling out as adults. It is packed with raw emotions—humor, anger, love, and pain—to capture how their bond changes amid a changing city and world. Through these experiences, the play seeks to answer this profound question: What does it mean to be a man?
Richard Gadd spoke of his excitement at playing Ruben. He wrote the role with Jamie Bell in mind. “I am delighted to confirm I will be playing Ruben in Half Man for the BBC and HBO alongside the incomparable Jamie Bell.”. I never thought we would get him, and yet here he is. He is one of the greatest actors of his generation and is going to bring that incredible gravitas and talent to this role. I’m grateful to the teams at the BBC, HBO, and Mam Tor Productions for making this happen-it’s going to be an incredible journey working with everyone involved.”
Jamie Bell, equally enthused, said: “I am excited to join this wonderful team of artists. Richard, again, has created something poignant and singular. To have been asked to bring this to life with him is my honor.”
The production team is equally thrilled. Tally Garner and Morven Reid of Mam Tor Productions described the casting as a perfect match: “The extraordinary Richard Gadd will bring Ruben to life, and the brilliant Jamie Bell is the ideal Niall. These complex, charismatic, and mercurial characters couldn’t be in better hands. We’re eager to see these talented actors explore the intricacies of their dynamic on screen.”
Lindsay Salt, BBC Drama Director “It’s been such a privilege to see Half Man take shape. Richard and Jamie are the perfect Ruben and Niall, and we can’t wait to share their epic journey with audiences on the BBC.”
BBC Scotland’s Head of Commissioning, Louise Thornton, emphasized the series’ connection to Scotland: “Half Man reflects BBC Scotland’s commitment to delivering high-quality drama rooted in Scottish culture to viewers locally and globally. This casting news marks an exciting milestone, and we’re thrilled to see Richard and Jamie breathe life into these powerful characters.”
Richard Gadd’s work in Baby Reindeer was amazing, said HBO’s Kara Buckley, Senior Vice President of Drama Programming. Jamie Bell speaks for himself and will surely deliver something great with him.
The series is made up of six 45-minute episodes and was commissioned by Lindsay Salt for BBC Drama. Production is handled by Wendy Griffin (Limbo, The Lost King), with creator, writer, and executive producer Richard Gadd alongside Mam Tor Productions’ Tally Garner and Morven Reid and Gaynor Holmes for the BBC, along with Gavin Smith for BBC Scotland. Alexandra Brodski (Somewhere Boy, Rivals) and Eshref Reybrouck (Ferry: The Series, Cheyenne & Lola) will direct.
Internationally distributed by Banijay Rights, Half Man comes in aid of Screen Scotland and will screen on BBC iPlayer, BBC One, and BBC Scotland in the UK, with HBO in the States.
Anticipation surrounds the piece, Half Man, with expectation of a story that will be both engaging and emotive, played out through an outstanding cast and creative team. Fans of Richard Gadd and Jamie Bell can both look forward to this drama that will challenge perceptions and cross timelines, following the complexities of masculinity throughout decades.
