Weeks after its premiere on Netflix, "Baby Reindeer" is still generating buzz. The show is inspired by star and creator Richard Gad's real-life experiences with stalkers, prompting viewers to theorize about the characters' identities. While Gad discouraged such speculation, fans found other topics to discuss — like the meaning of the final scene with the baby reindeer .
A touching, full-circle moment.
Towards the end of Episode 7, Donnie (Gad) goes to visit his abuser at home. "It shows an element of abuse that's never been seen on television before, and unfortunately that kind of attachment can sometimes have deep-seated negative psychological effects on abusers," Gad told GQ.
Distraught by the experience, Downey goes to a bar while listening to past voicemails from his stalker Martha (Jessica Gunning). He cried as he listened to her explain why she nicknamed him "Baby Reindeer." He reminded her of a stuffed animal she had as a child, "which was the only good thing about [her] childhood."
After listening to the voicemail, Donnie realized he didn't have the wallet to pay for the drink. "Don't worry," the bartender said. "Right on me." The callback to Downey offering Martha a free cup of tea at the beginning of the episode was a shocking moment — both for the audience and for Downey, who seemed to be struck by the resemblance. Shock.
Little Reindeer Final Scene Theory
Of course, there are many possible explanations for this moment. But according to Reddit user u/dogsnfeet, it could be about Downey "realizing that it was never his fault, that offering a free drink to someone in trouble is human nature, and being nice doesn't mean you asked for it." Being followed or deserved what happened next. "
Several fans resonated with the April 24 post, with one describing the exchange as Downey's "eureka moment." Another said the ending "proves that things like this can happen to anyone, and that he was right to show kindness to her in the first place."
Others noted that the ending reflected a moment of empathy, with Donnie stepping into Martha's shoes. "He now understands how Martha feels," one user wrote. "He was depressed and realized how much an act of kindness meant to someone in that position."
After hearing Martha's vulnerable story about her past, "he seemed to feel real empathy for how it all turned out, and maybe a little guilt," another suggested. They added that Downey being offered a free drink may have helped him remember "how much this act of kindness meant to Martha in her time of need." I hope this realization brought him some comfort. "
If you or someone you know is seeking help for a mental health issue, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) website or call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264). For confidential treatment referrals, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). In an emergency, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, you can call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit hotline.rainn.org.