Tributes flood in as Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise legend d.i.e.s aged 37
The commissioning editor behind Dᴇᴀᴛʜ In Paradise and Beyond Paradise has tragically d.i.e.d at the age of 37(Image: BBC)
The commissioning editor behind Dᴇᴀᴛʜ In Paradise and Beyond Paradise has tragically d.i.e.d at the age of 37, sparking an outpouring of grief on social media. News of the BBC’s Danielle Scott-Haughton’s passing was initially shared by The British Blacklist, before being acknowledged on Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise’s official Instagram account.
They shared a heartfelt message that said: “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.”
Raised by her Jamaican grandparents, a heritage she held close to her heart, Danielle launched her career as a multi-faceted creative, producing, writing and directing across numerous projects including Dear Jesus and The Alexis Show.
Before joining the BBC, Danielle worked for seven years at Balloon Entertainment, serving as Development Executive and Executive Producer on Champion, a pioneering musical written by Candice Carty-Williams for BBC One and Netflix. In her capacity as Commissioning Editor for Drama at the BBC, she was a key figure in the development of numerous beloved shows, including EastEnders, Just Act Normal, Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise, and Beyond Paradise, where she acted as executive producer on the BBC’s part.
She played a crucial role in delivering major adaptations and original content to viewers, such as A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder in 2024 and Towards Zero.
BBC’s Director of Drama Lindsay Salt and chief content officer Kate Phillips have paid tribute to the Danielle, saying: “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.” Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise also posted a moving tribute on the programme’s official Instagram page.
It stated: “We were devastated to learn of the passing of our friend and colleague Danielle Scott-Haughton. Dani was the BBC Commissioning Editor for Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise and Beyond Paradise and was a passionate champion of both shows, as well as every programme she worked on.
“It is impossible to put into words the energy and joy she brought with her each time she visited our shoots, or the wonderful collaboration of working with her. Her enthusiasm, positivity and determination not only to make every project as good as it could be, but also to take care of the people and world around her, was infectious and inspiring.”, reports the Mirror.
“We will all miss her enormously. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and colleagues at this difficult and very sad time.”#
Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise released an emotional tribute on their official show Instagram(Image: Instagram )
In the wake of the announcement, countless celebrities and supporters shared their heartfelt tributes on social media.
Radio presenter Clara Amfo expressed: “We love her beyond measure,” while Paul C Brunson, the relationship guru from Celebs Go Dating, said: “May Dani rest in paradise.”
Ria Hebden from Lorraine posted: “The saddest news. Thinking of all her family and loved ones,” whilst comedian Eddie Kadi shared four heartbroken emojis.
