What Does Russell T Davies' New Channel 4 Thriller Have to Say?

Russell T Davies is set to launch his latest Channel 4 thriller, Tip Toe, which tackles pressing social issues such as radicalisation and prejudice through the lens of a feuding neighbourhood in Manchester. The series, starring Alan Cumming and David Morrissey, promises to explore the complexities of modern life and the ongoing struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community, making it a highly anticipated release for 2026.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Russell T Davies is currently in the editing phase of Tip Toe, with an expanded editing team working diligently to ensure the series is ready for a swift release on Channel 4. This five-part drama has been filmed entirely in Manchester and is expected to resonate deeply with viewers, given the current socio-political climate affecting LGBTQ+ rights in the UK. Davies has expressed urgency in bringing this story to screens due to the increasingly vocal opposition to LGBTQ+ issues.

Key takeaways

Tip Toe is a new thriller by Russell T Davies, addressing themes of radicalisation and prejudice.
Starring Alan Cumming and David Morrissey, the series focuses on the dynamics between two feuding neighbours.
The drama is filmed entirely in Manchester, reflecting local culture and issues.

Timeline: how we got here

Tip Toe's journey began with the initial announcement of the project in 2022, following the success of Davies's previous work, It’s a Sin. Since then, filming has taken place throughout 2023 in Manchester, and the editing phase commenced in September 2023. The series is expected to air later in 2023, marking a significant return for Davies on Channel 4.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Davies recently shared insights about the editing process and the urgency behind the release of Tip Toe, emphasising the relevance of its themes in today's society. His comments at the Attitude 101 lunch shed light on the complexities of the narrative, which intertwines personal stories with broader social issues.

What was already established

It has been well-established that Tip Toe will explore the life of a gay man, Leo, and his relationship with his increasingly radicalised neighbour, Clive. The series aims to tackle misinformation and prejudice surrounding the LGBTQ+ community, a recurring theme in Davies's work.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Tip Toe is likely to spark conversations around LGBTQ+ rights and representation, which are especially pertinent given the current political climate in the UK. With rising social tensions, this drama could encourage viewers to engage more actively in discussions about tolerance and acceptance.

Businesses and jobs

The production of Tip Toe supports local businesses in Manchester, from catering services to filming locations, contributing to the local economy. The series also promotes the importance of inclusive storytelling, which can influence hiring practices and content creation in the media industry.

Policy and regulation

As the narrative of Tip Toe unfolds, it may play a role in shaping public policy discussions around LGBTQ+ rights and representation. With Davies’s history of influencing social change through his work, the series could create momentum for legislative discussions in the UK.

Numbers that matter

Tip Toe is one of the most anticipated dramas of 2026, following Davies’s impactful series, It’s a Sin.
It features a cast of notable actors, including Alan Cumming and David Morrissey, highlighting the importance of star power in attracting viewers.
Davies has an expanded editing team, doubling the usual size to expedite the series’ release.

Definitions and jargon buster

LGBTQ+: An acronym that stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and others, representing the spectrum of sexual orientations and gender identities.
Radicalisation: The process by which individuals come to adopt extremist political, social, or religious ideologies.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the editing phase continues, viewers can expect teasers and promotional material to be released, generating buzz for Tip Toe. This will likely include behind-the-scenes content and interviews with the cast and crew.

Medium term (1–6 months)

In the lead-up to the air date, discussions around the themes of the show are likely to intensify, especially regarding LGBTQ+ rights and representation in media. Davies’s involvement will keep the drama in the public eye.

Signals to watch

Official announcements regarding the air date of Tip Toe.
Media coverage discussing the themes and implications of the series.
Social media engagement from cast members and production teams.

Practical guidance

Do

Engage with content related to LGBTQ+ rights to stay informed on ongoing issues.
Support media that prioritises diverse and inclusive storytelling.

Don’t

Ignore the social issues being addressed in Tip Toe; they reflect real-world challenges.
Dismiss the importance of representation in media; it influences societal attitudes.

Checklist

Review the themes of Tip Toe and their relevance to current events.
Explore previous works by Russell T Davies for context.
Follow updates on the series through official channels.
Participate in discussions about LGBTQ+ representation in media.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While anticipation for Tip Toe is high, there are uncertainties regarding its reception. The series addresses sensitive topics, and it is important to consider how these issues resonate with different audiences. Additionally, the landscape of LGBTQ+ rights is continually evolving, which may affect the narrative's relevance over time.

Bottom line

Tip Toe is shaping up to be a crucial addition to the conversation around LGBTQ+ rights and representation in the UK. With Russell T Davies at the helm, viewers can expect a thought-provoking drama that challenges societal norms while also being entertaining. Its release could spark important discussions about the state of LGBTQ+ rights today and inspire activism moving forward.

FAQs

What is Tip Toe about?

Tip Toe is a new thriller by Russell T Davies that explores the relationship between two neighbours, focusing on themes of radicalisation, prejudice, and LGBTQ+ issues in modern Britain.

When will Tip Toe be released?

The series is expected to air later in 2023, though an exact date has not yet been announced.

Who stars in Tip Toe?

Tip Toe features a cast including Alan Cumming and David Morrissey, alongside Pooky Quesnel, Jackson Connor, Charlie Condou, and Denise Welch.