Dawn French’s latest sitcom, Can You Keep a Secret?, has been renewed for a second series just weeks after its successful premiere. The show, primarily filmed in and around Axbridge and Cheddar in Somerset, first aired in January and quickly captured the hearts of audiences, drawing 5.3 million viewers over a 28-day period.
The series stars Dawn French as Debbie Fendon, a formidable mother, wife, grandmother, and lawn bowls enthusiast, who discovers that she has been mistakenly claiming life insurance payments for her husband William—played by Mark Heap—who was declared dead, despite being very much alive and hiding in their attic. This shocking secret causes distress for their son Harold, portrayed by Craig Roberts, whose partner Neha (Mandip Gill), a police officer, becomes deeply involved in the unfolding drama.
Thanks to its warm humor and unique storyline, the show emerged as the third most popular comedy debut on BBC iPlayer in 2024, amassing 3.3 million viewers (62% of the audience) within its first 28 days, trailing only behind Ludwig and Amandaland.
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Creator and writer Simon-Mayhew Archer expressed his enthusiasm: “Making this series was a joyous experience. Comedy is a team game, and Dawn, Mark, Craig, Mandip, and the entire cast and crew have been dream collaborators. I’m grateful to everyone who has welcomed the Fendons into their homes and hearts. I hope this success encourages even more comedy productions across the UK, as comedy truly is one of our national superpowers.”
BBC’s Director of Comedy Commissioning, Jon Petrie, added: “The audience reaction has been fantastic. Dawn French and the creative team have delivered a warm, mischievous comedy that really resonated. We’re thrilled to bring it back for a second series and can’t wait to see more secrets unravel.”
Production for the second series is set to begin later this year across the West Country, promising more laughter and unexpected twists from the beloved Fendon family.
Can You Keep a Secret? is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.