S4C Gives Double Order for Best Kept Secrets

The Welsh-language broadcaster S4C has ordered two seasons of Best Kept Secrets (Cyfrinachau’r Llyfgell), the first of which is set to broadcast in September.

Produced by Slam Media, the show sees celebrities explore their history and heritage by partnering with an archive or museum to delve into artifacts and documents. ITV Studios will distribute the format internationally.

The first season for S4C will feature singer-songwriter and BBC Radio 6 Music presenter Cerys Matthews, presenter and naturalist Iolo Williams, journalist and documentary-maker Maxine Hughes and broadcaster and stand-up comic Tudur Owen. Dot Davies, BBC Radio Wales presenter, hosts.

Season two is scheduled to be broadcast on S4C in 2025.

Llinos Wynne, S4C’s head of documentaries and specialist factual, said, “Cyfrinachau’r Llyfrgell is an exciting format that offers the viewer an insight into the nation’s history and treasures through the eyes of some of Wales’ most loved celebrities. It’s a journey of historical and personal discovery with plenty of intrigue, surprises and emotion. The idea can be rooted in any country and culture, and that is the key to a successful international format.”

Executive Producer Geraint Rhys Lewis said: “We’re thrilled that S4C have shown so much faith and support in Cyfrinachau’r Llyfrgell right from the get-go, and that ITV Studios have recognized that our home-made format has real potential for a wider market. We’d also like to thank the team at the National Library who, from day one, backed and bought into our populist approach to storytelling. This is a really exciting time for everyone involved with the project.”

Ella Umansky, VP of format acquisitions for ITV Studios, said: “Best Kept Secrets is a real gem of a show, beautifully and thoughtfully made. It brings a unique and personal perspective on a country’s history and incredible artifacts, and we are excited to be working with Slam and S4C to launch the format globally. We look forward to revealing the hidden stories of other nations and the best-kept secrets of celebrities around the world.”