Danielle Scott-Haughton, a highly regarded BBC drama executive who worked on major titles including Peaky Blinders and several Agatha Christie adaptations, has died unexpectedly in her 30s. Her death was announced internally this week by BBC Director of Drama Lindsay Salt and BBC content chief Kate Phillips, who confirmed that Scott-Haughton passed away in her sleep.

In a message to staff, Phillips and Salt paid tribute to a commissioner widely admired across the industry. “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,” they wrote. “She lit up every room she walked into and infused the drama team with positivity, kindness and the most infectious, warm energy.”

Scott-Haughton joined the BBC in 2023 as a commissioning editor, overseeing a diverse slate that included EastEnders, the upcoming Agatha Christie adaptation Endless Night, comedy Just Act Normal, and two forthcoming series of Peaky Blinders, on which she was credited as an executive producer. She was also involved with Christie’s Towards Zero through Mammoth Screen.

Before joining the BBC, Scott-Haughton spent more than six years at Balloon Entertainment, where her credits included Candice Carty-Williams’ acclaimed drama Champion. In 2012, she created the award-winning drama Dear Jesus and went on to receive a Screen Nation Award. She studied at the London College of Fashion.

Colleagues across the television industry have shared heartfelt tributes, describing Scott-Haughton as both an exceptional creative force and a deeply compassionate presence.

Balloon Entertainment said in a statement: “We are heartbroken at the death of our beloved Dani. She was the best — not just the best at development or production, but the best at friendship. She enriched the lives of everyone lucky enough to know her. We will love and cherish her forever.”

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Damien Timmer, founder of Mammoth Screen, praised her rare combination of talent and empathy. “Every interaction with Dani felt special — a phone message, a lunch, a script meeting,” he said. “She cared deeply about the audience and the people making the shows. She made us all try to be our best. A good mantra for the industry going forward would be to ‘be more Dani.’”

Kate Oates, Head of Drama at BBC Studios Productions, reflected on Scott-Haughton’s impact at EastEnders. “When Dani arrived, it felt like Christmas had come early. She was a fan of the show, a brilliant storyteller, and a fierce talent with an incredibly kind heart. The messages of condolence from across the production speak volumes about how loved she was.”

Red Planet Pictures, producers of Death in Paradise, also paid tribute, calling her “a passionate champion of these shows and everyone who worked on them.” The company added: “Her energy, joy and commitment to both the work and the people behind it were inspiring. She will be missed enormously.”

Scott-Haughton is remembered not only for her creative achievements, but for her dedication to championing female and diverse writers and directors, and for her unwavering support of colleagues at every level.

Danielle is survived by a community of colleagues and friends who continue to celebrate her legacy, warmth and extraordinary spirit.