BAFTA-nominated writer and actress Daisy Haggard is set to bring a fresh take on the witness protection drama with “Maya,” a new six-part thriller commissioned by Channel 4. The series, produced by Two Brothers Pictures (known for “The Tourist” and “Fleabag”), combines psychological suspense with dark comedy.
Haggard, who previously starred in “Back to Life” and “Breeders,” will play Anna, a mother forced to flee London with her teenage daughter Maya when a dangerous threat emerges. The pair must adopt new identities in a small rural town, but their attempt at a fresh start is complicated by pursuing hitmen and the looming presence of their mysterious past.
The series promises to explore weighty themes including identity, predatory male behavior, and maternal protection, while maintaining Haggard’s trademark humor. “I am so excited that we finally get to share Maya with the world!” says Haggard. “It has been brewing and building in my mind for a long time and I feel extremely fortunate to be able to shine a light on these kinds of stories.”
Channel 4’s Drama Director Ollie Madden praised the script’s “uniquely British take on parenting and the oddities of witness protection schemes,” noting how it balances laugh-out-loud moments with gripping thriller elements.
Two Brothers Pictures, who are reuniting with Haggard for this project, expressed enthusiasm about bringing her vision to screen. Executive producer Sarah Hammond highlighted Haggard’s “trademark flair for beautiful characterisation and compelling, truthful story-telling.”
While further casting is yet to be announced, the series is set to examine whether the witness protection system can truly keep its participants safe, or if extraordinary measures will be required for survival. The drama will be distributed internationally by All3Media International.
