Russell T. Davies is preparing to launch what he describes as his “angriest and darkest” project to date with the upcoming Tip Toe.
The series stars Alan Cumming as Leo, a gay bar owner in Manchester, alongside David Morrissey as his neighbor Clive. The drama centers on a feud between the two men, with Davies describing the story as a reflection of increasingly radicalized public discourse in modern Britain.
The series debuts this Sunday on Channel 4.
Davies has also discussed the possibility of an American adaptation. He said he would like Matt Bomer to take a leading role, adding that the actor had previously expressed interest in collaborating with him. Davies reportedly joked that he would “sell it to him for 10 pence” if Bomer agreed to make the project.
An Unusual Funding Structure
Produced by Quay Street Productions and backed by Channel 4 alongside ITV Studios, Tip Toe appears to have moved forward without relying on a traditional U.S. co-production structure.
Davies suggested that American financing may have been difficult to secure because of the show’s political tone, though no broadcaster or financing partner has publicly commented on those discussions.
He also described the production model as a “quiet little revolution” for British television, with ITV Studios reportedly providing deficit financing rather than waiting for international distribution partners before moving the project into production.
Greenlit Within Days
According to Davies, the project developed unusually quickly. He and producing partner Nicola Shindler pitched the series with Alan Cumming already attached to star.
Davies said Channel 4 approved the drama within seven days following a meeting held during the broadcaster’s 2024 Christmas dinner.
Personal Anger Behind the Story
Davies has linked the themes of Tip Toe to personal experiences, saying the script draws on years of anger over the abuse faced by his late husband, Andrew Smith, because of his disability.
The series also arrives during an increasingly tense political and cultural debate in the UK surrounding gender identity and single-sex spaces. Davies said those developments have left many people within the queer community feeling increasingly uneasy about British society.
With Tip Toe, Davies appears to be returning to the politically charged territory explored in works such as Years and Years and It’s a Sin, though with a more openly confrontational tone.
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