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Dawn French Returns in BBC Dark Comedy Thriller 'Cackling'

  //humor-quirks.news-articles.net/content/2026/01 .. eturns-in-bbc-dark-comedy-thriller-cackling.html
  Published in Humor and Quirks on Wednesday, January 7th 2026 at 1:23 GMT by Metro

Dawn French Returns to BBC Comedy with “Cackling” – A First Look at Her New Series

After a significant gap, comedy icon Dawn French is returning to the BBC with a brand new six-part series titled “Cackling.” The show, described as a “darkly comic thriller,” marks French’s first leading role in a television comedy for over five years and promises a departure from her more familiar, heartwarming characters. The article from Metro.co.uk provides a first look at the series, detailing the premise, cast, and French’s motivation for taking on this new, more complex role.

“Cackling” centers around Moira, a wife and mother who appears to lead a perfectly ordinary life in a seemingly idyllic village. However, beneath the surface, Moira harbours a dangerous secret: she’s a contract killer. The series will explore the dual life she leads, balancing the mundane tasks of motherhood and marriage with the sinister demands of her profession. The show doesn't shy away from the macabre, with the Metro article highlighting the deliberately unsettling and darkly humorous tone. French herself describes it as being “properly funny, but also genuinely scary.”

This isn't a simple fish-out-of-water comedy; “Cackling” delves into the psychological toll of Moira’s double life. The article points to a deliberate attempt to create a character who is flawed, complex, and ultimately, human. French herself expressed that she was “thrilled to be playing a character as complex and bewildering as Moira.” She’s known for playing beloved, often slightly eccentric, characters like Geraldine Granger in “Vicar of Dibley”, and this new role offers a significant shift. It's a move away from the comfortable, and towards exploring the darkness that can exist within seemingly normal people.

The supporting cast is equally strong, featuring Julia Davis (known for "Camping" and "Sally4Ever"), Robert Bathurst (“Good News,” “Jeeves and Wooster”), and Kae Alexander (“Unforgotten”). The presence of such established and talented comedic and dramatic actors suggests a high level of production quality and a sophisticated approach to the material. The article notes the strong chemistry between French and Davis, hinting at a particularly dynamic and intriguing partnership on screen. Davis plays the character of Suki, who is described as a fellow professional, and someone who understands the complexities of Moira's life in a way that others don't.

The series is penned by Vivienne Raper, who has a history of writing for popular British comedies such as “After Life” and “Inside No. 9”. This demonstrates a clear understanding of comedic timing and narrative structure. The director is Iain Fletcher, who has helmed episodes of shows like “The Tourist” and “Stath Lets Flats”, showcasing an ability to balance both comedic and dramatic elements.

Beyond the immediate plot details, the Metro article reveals that French was initially hesitant about returning to a leading role in a comedy series. She had spent the last few years focusing on other projects, including writing, presenting, and historical documentaries. However, the script for “Cackling” proved irresistible. She felt it was a unique and compelling story that offered her the opportunity to push her boundaries as an actress.

French has also spoken about wanting to explore themes of midlife and the unexpected turns life can take. While the premise of the show is undeniably outlandish, the Metro article suggests that the underlying themes of identity, regret, and the search for meaning are relatable. Moira’s situation, despite its extreme nature, reflects the pressures many women face to balance multiple roles and expectations, and the frustrations that can arise when life doesn’t meet expectations.

The series is being produced by Bleeding Heart Entertainment, a production company known for its high-quality, character-driven dramas and comedies. They were responsible for the recent critically acclaimed series "The Sixth Commandment" and "Danny Boy". This further reinforces the expectation that “Cackling” will be a sophisticated and well-crafted production.

While a specific release date hasn’t been announced beyond “early 2024” (as of the original article date of January 7, 2026, this has passed, and the show premiered on January 29th, 2024), the Metro article clearly positions “Cackling” as a must-watch for fans of Dawn French and for anyone looking for a darkly comedic thriller with a compelling female lead. It’s a show that promises to be both unsettling and hilarious, and a testament to French’s enduring talent and willingness to take on challenging new roles. The series is already garnering attention for its bold premise and the promise of a darker, more complex side of the beloved actress.