Behind the Scenes of Russell T Davies’ Twisty New Thriller, Tip Toe
Behind the scenes of Russell T Davies – On a day that could easily pass for a typical Manchester downpour, we find ourselves in a kitchen that initially seems like it belongs to an ordinary family home. Yet, a glance through the window reveals a sky streaked with sunlight and a blue expanse, hinting that this isn’t a real kitchen but a carefully crafted set. The person behind the scenes? Alan Cumming, playing the role of Leo Struthers. Across from him, Russell T Davies—renowned television writer and creator of iconic series like *Queer as Folk* and *Years and Years*—sits at the table, a man deeply invested in his latest project. The BBC has secured exclusive access to the cast and crew of *Tip Toe*, Davies’ upcoming thriller, offering a glimpse into the world being built on a film set in the heart of Manchester.
A Story of Diverging Paths and Digital Shadows
*Tip Toe* centers on two neighbors—Leo, a 59-year-old bar owner in the Gay Village, and Clive, a straight man in the same neighborhood—whose rivalry escalates into a dangerous spiral as one of them becomes entangled with the spread of online disinformation. The stakes are high, and the consequences ripple far beyond their personal conflict. Davies, known for blending humor with poignant social commentary, acknowledges the challenge of addressing such serious themes while maintaining levity. “It’s a balancing act,” he admits, “but it’s something I’ve done before. *It’s a Sin* looked back at the 80s, and *Years and Years* imagined a dystopian future. This time, the focus is on the present, a world that feels increasingly fraught.”
“I see the world getting worse and worse these days to be honest,” Davies says. “I am very worried about the future for my nieces and nephews.”
When asked if the show could spark meaningful change in the real world, Davies reflects on past successes. “*It’s a Sin* led to a surge in HIV testing rates, and *Mr Bates vs The Post Office* brought national attention to the Horizon IT scandal. But television has always been more than a mirror—it’s a catalyst.” He shakes his head, emphasizing his belief in the medium’s power. “I wish it could change the world faster. If I had more time, I’d write more, and maybe make things better quicker.”
Casting a Star: Alan Cumming’s Return to the Screen
Davies’ decision to cast Alan Cumming as Leo Struthers is a triumph in itself. The actor, known for his work in theater and film, has been a personal favorite of Davies for over two decades. “It’s been a long time coming,” the writer admits, “but I knew Cumming was the right choice from the start.” The role was presented to Cumming before the script was finalized, and he was immediately captivated by its premise. The show’s twist—a revelation that Leo is dead from the beginning—left him “blown away.”
“As the series unfolds, we grow to care for everyone, and by the time we reach the later episodes, you almost forget he’s not alive,” Cumming explains. “But the mystery of how and when he died keeps the suspense alive. It’s a clever device, and it makes the story feel more urgent.”
The concept resonates with Cumming, who sees the show as a timely reflection of modern anxieties. “It’s so relevant,” he adds, “and it’s needed. People are dealing with real issues like misinformation, and it’s refreshing to see them explored through a character who’s both familiar and unexpected.”
Collaboration and Chemistry: Morrissey and Cumming
David Morrissey, who portrays Clive Goss, Leo’s neighbor, joins Cumming in a unique partnership. Despite being friends for over four decades and even living next door to each other in the past, this is their first collaboration on screen. The dynamic between the two actors is both professional and personal, allowing for a depth of connection that enriches their performances.
“Working with someone you’ve known for so long makes the process easier,” Morrissey says during a break from filming. “We can push each other in scenes that are emotionally charged, and when the director calls ‘cut,’ we’re already hugging, reassuring one another. It’s a great balance between tension and tenderness.”
New Faces in the Spotlight: Joseph Evans and Jackson Connor
Alongside established stars, the show also introduces newcomers Joseph Evans and Jackson Connor, who play the Goss brothers Saul and George. Their on-screen chemistry is a standout element, mirroring the real-life rapport between the actors. During a brief pause in filming, they sit in what would be their front garden—a plywood set in a Manchester film studio—chatting while filming a frosty scene with their father, David Morrissey. The brothers’ resemblance and playful banter make it easy to believe they are siblings.
“We’re not just acting; we’re living it,” Evans says, laughing as he and Connor mock each other’s lines. “It’s like we’ve been doing this our whole lives.” Their ability to blend humor with emotional depth adds another layer to the show’s exploration of family and conflict.
Revisiting Queer Representation: The Legacy of *Queer as Folk*
Davies’ earlier work, *Queer as Folk*, which premiered in 1999, was a cultural milestone in LGBTQ+ representation. It showcased the lives of gay men in a way that was both authentic and groundbreaking. Yet, as the years have passed, Davies feels the landscape has shifted. “Back then, I thought we’d achieved equality,” he recalls, “and that things would only get better. But now, I see more hostility, more aggression toward our community.”
“When we were shooting *Queer as Folk*, I imagined a future where we’d all be hand-in-hand, skipping down the street,” Davies says with a wry smile. “We got close to that about 10 years ago, but lately, I feel like we’re slipping back.”
Despite this, Davies remains undeterred. “The world is always changing, and that means there’s always something new to write about,” he says. “Whether it’s the digital age, climate change, or the state of our relationships, I’ll keep telling stories that reflect the times.” His commitment to social commentary is evident in every project, from the heart-wrenching *It’s a Sin* to the sharp satire of *Years and Years*.
Progress and Paradox: The Future of TV
As the production wraps up, the cast and crew prepare for the show’s debut. Episodes 1 and 2 will premiere on Channel 4, with the first airing on Sunday, May 31, and the second on Monday, June 1. The series promises to challenge audiences with its twists, emotional beats, and timely themes. Davies, ever the visionary, sees *Tip Toe* as part of a larger narrative—one that continues to evolve as society changes.
“The more the world changes, the more stories we need,” he says. “Television has the power to shape how we see ourselves and each other. I’ll keep doing it as long as there’s something worth saying.” For Cumming, Morrissey, and the rest of the cast, the project is more than a job—it’s a chance to make a statement in a world that’s still figuring out how to navigate the chaos of the digital era. Their work on *Tip Toe* is a testament to the enduring relevance of Davies’ storytelling and the power of art to reflect, challenge, and inspire.
