Can You Keep a Secret?

Debbie Fenton runs her household with a blend of stubborn resolve and old fashioned charm. A devoted granny, a keen lawn bowler, and self styled guardian of her clan, she treats family protection as a full time project. Her well intentioned schemes often misfire, turning well meant care into practical chaos that the family must untangle. When her hermit-like husband William dies unexpectedly, Debbie refuses to let grief steer the rules she lives by. Instead she doubles down on the protection plan, a decision that pushes the entire clan into a new round of unpredictable pressure. The show bites into family loyalty without losing its light touch.

Created by Simon Mayhew-Archer, the 2026 comedy features Dawn French as Debbie Fenton with Mark Heap, Craig Roberts and Mandip Gill in supporting roles. The show leans into character driven humor, with Dawn French delivering deadpan lines that bite and warmth. The supporting cast brings awkward charm and surprising tenderness.

To date there are no major awards announced for Can You Keep a Secret? Critics praise the lively ensemble and brisk humor, suggesting it could appeal to fans of domestic satire. Its dialogue and rhythm stand out.

With a familiar cast and a brisk premise, the show has the potential to become a conversation starter about family power dynamics and the quirks of protectionism. Dawn French's presence could help it resonate across generations.

Initial reactions emphasize sharp timing, awkward family moments, and the clash between a traditional guard dog mother and a modern blended household. The show looks at how far protection goes before it becomes pressure, delivering humor through relatable domestic chaos and generational friction.