Russell T Davies has given fans an insight into his new Channel 4 drama series Tip Toe.

The Doctor Who icon is helming the new show starring Alan Cumming and David Morrissey, which is set around Manchester’s Gay Village.

The five-part series follows neighbours, Leo (Cumming) and Clive (Morrissey), “who have lived next door to each other in Manchester for almost 15 years”.

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“But just as life should be settling down, the world around them is growing more tense,” the official synopsis adds.

“Words become weapons, opinions become radicalised, and gradually, two neighbours become deadly enemies in a tense, suburban thriller which challenges everything we consider to be safe.”

alan cumming, david morrissey, russell t davies tip toe

Channel 4

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Speaking at the Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards, Davies explained how the “very modern, very angry, and very funny” series reflects our modern climate.

“I think the main message is we’re in trouble,” he began. “Alan plays a bar owner who runs a bar called Spit and Polish on Canal Street.

“I’ve never actually done that before. I’ve never been on the street itself. It’s very modern, it’s very angry, it’s very funny. It’s about life today, but with a lot of twists and turns. I’m very excited.”

russell t davies

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He continued: “I think almost every message is in there; I’ve not held back. I think the main message is we’re in trouble, and I think a wave of hatred is heading our way, especially in the forthcoming elections, with enemies rising up against us in the vote. So it’s a call to arms.”

Davies went on to say that “these days it’s hard work to be gay”, explaining: “To cut your way through the world all day, every day, in some shape or form, you’re coming out. You’re presenting yourself. And we’re being attacked.”

Tip Toe is set to be released in 2026, with an exact release date yet to be announced.

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Freelance Reporter, Digital Spy
Rebecca is a freelance journalist who specializes in TV and film. After beginning her career as a digital entertainment journalist for the Express & Star and Shropshire Star, she embarked on a freelance career in 2021 contributing to the likes of Metro UK, The Sun, WhatCulture, Screen Rant, FilmHounds Magazine and more.
Her particular field of interest is horror cinema and she has written for genre publications such as Ghouls Magazine and Moving Pictures Film Club.
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