In the ever-evolving world of television, few individuals manage to make an impact quite as monumental as Richard Gadd has in 2025. The creator and star of the Netflix hit Baby Reindeer has been named the most influential person in TV according to the prestigious Radio Times TV 100 list.
This annual ranking celebrates the biggest and most impactful names in the television industry, and this year, Gadd’s bold storytelling and authentic performances have not only earned him a top spot but have also sparked global conversations.
Baby Reindeer, a show inspired by Gadd’s own real-life experiences, is a testament to his creative brilliance. His unique blend of humor, raw emotion, and confronting themes has made the series a cultural phenomenon. But what exactly makes Gadd so influential, and how did he get here? Let’s explore his remarkable journey and the surrounding impact of his work.
Richard Gadd: From Outsider to Industry Leader
Richard Gadd’s rise to prominence is a fascinating one. As a self-proclaimed outsider in the TV industry, Gadd never felt fully integrated into the traditional pathways that most celebrities follow.
In an interview with Radio Times, he reflected on his journey, expressing how, for much of his career, he never felt like part of the “in crowd” that attends elite parties or private members’ clubs. Instead, Gadd’s path has always been rooted in authenticity, hard work, and a deep passion for storytelling.
“I’ve always felt outside of the industry in a lot of ways,” he confessed, acknowledging that his unconventional approach to career development set him apart from the mainstream.
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Instead of following the traditional trajectory of fame, Gadd spent his childhood focusing on his craft—writing, acting, and trying to bring humor into the lives of those around him. Even in his younger years, he was fixated on making people laugh, often doing “silly stuff” just to entertain his friends.
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Gadd’s rise to TV stardom has been a result of his commitment to honing his craft and telling stories that are not only entertaining but also meaningful. His work on Baby Reindeer, a psychological drama with a biting sense of humor, has captivated audiences and critics alike. The show’s success has catapulted him to the top of the Radio Times list, a significant achievement that reflects his growing influence in the industry.
The Cultural Impact of Baby Reindeer
Baby Reindeer is not just another television series—it’s a cultural moment. Inspired by Gadd’s personal experiences, the show explores themes of obsession, relationships, and the fine line between empathy and manipulation.
Gadd stars as Donny, a character who finds himself stalked by a woman named Martha, played by Jessica Gunning, after he offers her a free cup of tea in the pub where he works. This simple gesture sets off a series of events that spiral out of control, leading to complex emotional dynamics and deeply personal confrontations.
The show has resonated with audiences worldwide, sparking global discussions about the portrayal of relationships, the role of power dynamics in human interaction, and the darker sides of comedy and drama.
Critics have hailed Baby Reindeer as a groundbreaking piece of television that challenges traditional storytelling and pushes the boundaries of what TV can say about human nature and vulnerability.
Gadd’s performance in the show has been described as unflinching and raw, embodying a character that feels both deeply relatable and unsettling. His portrayal of Donny has been central to the success of Baby Reindeer, and it’s clear that Gadd has redefined what it means to be a leading man on television. His ability to blend humor with dark themes is a testament to his skill as a writer and performer, making him a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.
The Power of the Radio Times TV 100 List
The Radio Times TV 100 list is an annual celebration of the most influential and powerful figures in television. Compiled by a panel of TV experts and executives, the list recognizes individuals who have shaped the industry through their talent, creativity, and leadership. In 2025, Richard Gadd’s rise to the top of the list is a clear indication of his significant impact on the medium.
While Gadd took the number one spot, the rest of the list is filled with notable figures who have also made waves in television. Jessica Gunning, who co-stars with Gadd in Baby Reindeer, secured second place for her compelling performance as Martha.
Gunning’s portrayal of a woman with a dangerous obsession has been lauded for its depth and intensity. Meanwhile, Ambika Mod earned third place after her standout roles in One Day and The Stolen Girl, two projects that have cemented her as one of the most talented actors of the year.
The Radio Times TV 100 list is more than just a ranking of popular stars—it’s a reflection of the shifting dynamics of the television industry. The presence of fresh faces like Gadd and Mod alongside established names like Ruth Jones, James Corden, and Claudia Winkleman highlights the diverse range of talent currently shaping the entertainment landscape.
The list also underscores the importance of collaboration in television. Many of the individuals featured, such as Gadd and Gunning, have worked together to create content that has had a lasting impact. This sense of camaraderie and mutual respect is at the heart of the industry’s evolution, with stars supporting one another to produce groundbreaking work.
The Top Ten Most Influential People in TV:
The Radio Times TV 100 list is a celebration of the talent, creativity, and leadership that continues to shape the television industry. In 2025, Richard Gadd’s bold vision and groundbreaking work with Baby Reindeer put him at the top, but he wasn’t alone in making a mark. The full list, showcasing the powerhouses of television, is a reminder of the diverse talent that fuels the medium’s ongoing success.
Here is the complete top ten ranking from the Radio Times TV 100:
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Richard Gadd |
| 2 | Jessica Gunning |
| 3 | Ambika Mod |
| 4 | Leo Woodall |
| 5 | Dominic Treadwell-Collins |
| 6 | Ruth Jones and James Corden |
| 7 | Claudia Winkleman |
| 8 | Chris McCausland |
| 9 | Marisa Abela |
| 10 | Danny Dyer |
This list serves as a powerful reminder of the ever-evolving nature of television, where new talent continues to emerge and push the boundaries of storytelling. As we look ahead, it’s clear that the names featured in the Radio Times TV 100 will continue to shape the future of the industry, and Richard Gadd’s influence is only just beginning.
Richard Gadd’s rise to the top of the Radio Times TV 100 list represents not only his individual achievements but also the shifting landscape of television itself. As a creator, writer, and performer, Gadd has carved a unique niche for himself in the industry, and his influence will undoubtedly resonate for years to come.
The success of Baby Reindeer is a testament to the power of authenticity, hard work, and a willingness to take risks—qualities that Gadd embodies in every project he takes on. With such bold and exciting work on the horizon, it’s clear that Richard Gadd is a name we will continue to see at the forefront of television for years to come.