Dawn French Returns to Sitcoms as BBC Unveils New Projects

The BBC has announced the return of comedy icon Dawn French to British sitcoms, alongside a celebrity edition of the popular show "The Traitors" and a new documentary fronted by Rose Ayling-Ellis. The broadcaster confirmed a fourth series and a nine-part celebrity version of the sitcom, which is set in the West Country and revolves around a quirky family dynamic. French, who will star in the new series titled "Can You Keep a Secret?" alongside Mark Heap, expressed her excitement for the project, emphasizing the relatable mischief at its core. Dawn French has previously hinted at her return to television, acknowledging the challenges of creating comedy in today's climate. She remarked on the difficulty of making humor that resonates without facing backlash, stating, "It is just not funny to anyone except for the one person who thinks it is." Fans can expect the new sitcom to premiere at the end of next year or early the following year, promising a fresh comedic experience. In addition to French's sitcom, Rose Ayling-Ellis will lead a documentary titled "Signs for Living," which aims to teach British Sign Language (BSL) to older individuals. The BBC describes the documentary as "profound and heartwarming," showcasing the transformative power of BSL in enhancing the quality of life for seniors. The series will feature uplifting interactions between older learners and younger deaf children, highlighting the emotional connections formed through signing. This documentary is part of a broader initiative by the BBC to celebrate BSL, with a dedicated season planned for next year that will include various content across its platforms, aiming to break down communication barriers and promote inclusivity.