The BBC has unveiled the first details for its upcoming star-studded sitcom, Can You Keep A Secret?, fronted by comedy legend Dawn French.
A Comedic Web of Deceit
The six-part series, written by Simon Mayhew-Archer, follows Debbie Fenton, played by French, a widow with a massive secret. Her husband, William, portrayed by Mark Heap, is not actually dead. After being mistakenly declared deceased, the retired couple seize the opportunity. William will hide in the loft until a life insurance payout arrives, allowing them to fund their golden years.
Their plan is complicated by their frazzled son, Harry, played by Craig Roberts, who is aware of the scheme. The situation becomes even more precarious as Harry's wife, Neha, is a local police officer. Mandip Gill takes on this role, and her character's profession poses a significant threat to the Fentons' secret if she were to discover what her in-laws are plotting.
Filming and Release Details
The central question of the show remains: will the Fentons be able to maintain their deception, or will the truth be exposed? The comedy is both set and filmed in the West Country, adding a distinct regional flavour.
Fans can expect to see the series premiere on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in early 2026.
Meet the Cast
Dawn French, 68, is an iconic figure in British comedy, famous for her work with Jennifer Saunders and for her beloved role as the title character in The Vicar of Dibley. She also appeared in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban as the Fat Lady portrait.
Her on-screen husband is played by Mark Heap, 68, best known for his role as Jim in Friday Night Dinner, with other notable credits including Upstart Crow and Death in Paradise.
Craig Roberts, known for the film Submarine, and Mandip Gill, from Doctor Who, round out the main cast as the son and daughter-in-law caught in the middle of the chaos.
In other BBC comedy news, viewers have been deeply moved by the new series Leonard And Hungry Paul. The show, narrated by Julia Roberts, follows two friends in their 30s navigating life. The cast includes Alex Lawther and Laurie Kynaston. Fans have taken to social media to praise the series, calling it "quietly beautiful" and "utterly stunning."
