In a thrilling announcement, the esteemed showrunner Russell T Davies has revealed an intriguing new project set to captivate audiences. Following the resounding success of the acclaimed series It’s A Sin, Davies is set to grace TV screens once again with a groundbreaking LGBT drama.
Titled “Tip Toe,” this five-part series, slated to air on Channel 4, delves into the lives of two compelling characters. The narrative centers around Clive, an electrician navigating the complexities of fatherhood with his two teenage sons, and Leo, who manages a bar on the vibrant Canal Street in Manchester.
“This is a story that demanded to be told,” Davies expressed passionately. “In a world increasingly fraught with challenges and shadows, the time for this narrative is now. The struggle continues, and Tip Toe stands as a testament to that fight.”
Building on the monumental success of It’s A Sin, which enraptured audiences with its poignant portrayal of the HIV/AIDS crisis in 1980s London, Davies continues to push boundaries and spark vital conversations. The series, featuring the charismatic pop star Olly Alexander, not only garnered impressive viewership but also sparked a surge in HIV testing, championed by the Terrence Higgins Trust.
Channel 4 witnessed a historic viewership milestone as It’s A Sin amassed a staggering 6.5 million views within a fortnight of its premiere, cementing Davies’ status as a master storyteller unafraid to tackle poignant narratives.
Davies’ journey to bring Tip Toe to life was not without its challenges, as the seasoned creator revealed that his script faced numerous rejections before finding its rightful home at Channel 4. With a rich history of groundbreaking television, including the groundbreaking Queer As Folk series in 1999, Davies’ commitment to authentic storytelling is unwavering.
Looking ahead to the premiere of Tip Toe in 2023, Davies shared his vision for a darker LGBTQ+ drama, citing the pervasive atmosphere of animosity that propelled him to craft a narrative rich in social commentary. “Amidst the cacophony of hatred and division, I feel compelled to lend my voice to the discourse,” Davies remarked, hinting at the thematic depth awaiting viewers in the upcoming series.
Executive producer Nicola Shindler, a seasoned collaborator with Davies, expressed her excitement at the prospect of bringing Tip Toe to life. With a poignant blend of wit, warmth, and emotional resonance, the series promises to be a timely and compelling exploration of pressing societal issues.
As casting details for Tip Toe remain under wraps for now, fans eagerly anticipate the unveiling of the ensemble that will breathe life into Davies’ visionary narrative. Produced by Quay Street Productions, a division of ITV Studios, and helmed by a team of industry veterans including Shindler and Peter Hoar, the series is poised to set a new benchmark for groundbreaking storytelling on the small screen.
Stay tuned
