Writer and producer Simon Mayhew-Archer launches comedy prodco Mayhay Studios

British writer and producer Simon Mayhew-Archer has launched a scripted comedy production company called Mayhay Studios.

Simon Mayhew-Archer

The launch coincides with the BBC One debut this week of Mayhew-Archer’s first solo writing project, Can You Keep a Secret?, starring Dawn French and Mark Heap. Coproduced with Big Talk and CBS Studios, the series will also stream on Paramount+ in the US.

BAFTA-winning Mayhew-Archer’s previous credits include This Country (BBC Three), Such Brave Girls (BBC/A24) and Funboys (BBC), plus three seasons of Josh for BBC One.

Mayhay Studios’ slate includes a second season of Funboys and Lovebots, co-written with RTS Breakthrough winner Ele McKenzie.

“I want Mayhay Studios to be a home for brilliant new writers and performers to do their proudest work; a company that helps them take creative risks and supports them to make shows that feel truthful, surprising and genuinely funny. Making good television can be hard but with a clear vision and a commitment to authenticity, it can also be the best fun and help you avoid getting a real job,” Mayhew-Archer said.