A BBC Commissioning Editor who worked on hit shows such as Death in Paradise and Peaky Blinders has sadly died.
Danielle Scott-Haughton has tragically passed away at the age of 37, with tributes pouring in across social media.
The devastating news was first revealed by The British Blacklist before being confirmed by the official Death in Paradise Instagram account.
The emotional post read: “We are heartbroken to share the passing of Danielle Scott-Haughton, a brilliant BBC Commissioning Editor, producer, and a cherished friend of The British Blacklist and the wider Black British creative community.
“Danielle truly showed up. In action, care, and belief. She was a steadfast supporter of Black creatives, Black stories, and Black-led platforms, always believing our stories deserved space, scale, and respect.”
(Image: BBC)
BBC content chief Kate Phillips and director of drama, Lindsay Salt, released a statement regarding her death in an internal email earlier this week, reports the Express.
It read: “We have some truly awful news to share. “Dani Scott-Haughton, one of our brilliant drama commissioners, died unexpectedly in her sleep.”
Phillips and Salt message continued: “For those of you who knew Dani, you will understand just how extraordinary and special she was – full of joy for her job, super smart, deeply committed, bursting with integrity and a hugely talented commissioner who cared passionately about the work and every single person behind it. She lit up every room she walked into, and infused the drama team with positivity, kindness and the most infectious, warm energy.
“From the day I met Dani, she was a constant source of encouragement; she made us all better because she truly believed. She was our greatest champion and an even greater friend. There aren’t enough words but I’m grateful to have known her, to have been touched by her light and enormous heart.”
Following the announcement, celebrities and devoted fans flocked to social media to express their condolences.
(Image: BBC/Caryn Mandabach Productions Ltd./Robert Viglasky)
Radio presenter Clara Amfo wrote: “We love her beyond measure,” whilst Celebs Go Dating expert Paul C Brunson commented: “May Dani rest in paradise [dove emoji].”
Lorraine broadcaster Ria Hebden wrote: “The saddest news. Thinking of all her family and loved ones [heartbroken emoji, white dove emoji],” whilst Eddie Kadi simply posted four heartbroken emojis.
Scott-Haughton was brought up by her Jamaican grandparents, something she treasured throughout her life.
During the early stages of her career, she worked as a creator, producer, writer, and director on projects such as Dear Jesus and The Alexis Show.
Prior to joining the BBC, Danielle spent seven years at Balloon Entertainment, where she served as a Development Executive and Executive Producer on Champion, the groundbreaking musical by Candice Carty-Williams for BBC One and Netflix.
In her role as Commissioning Editor, Drama at the BBC, she supervised and contributed to numerous cherished programmes on the corporation, including EastEnders, Just Act Normal, Death in Paradise, and Beyond Paradise, where she served as executive producer on the BBC’s contribution.
She also helped bring major adaptations and originals to the screen, such as A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder in 2024, the much-loved Peaky Blinders series and the Agatha Christie adaptation Towards Zero.
