Behind the scenes of Russell T Davies’ twisty new thriller, Tip Toe
Behind the Scenes of Russell T Davies’ Twisty New Thriller, Tip Toe
Behind the scenes of Russell T Davies – Manchester’s drizzle sets the scene for a day that feels anything but ordinary. The narrative unfolds in a kitchen, initially mistaken for a cozy domestic space in a terraced home, but the clues are subtle: dishes stacked in sinks, food chilling in the fridge, and a window revealing blue skies rather than rain. This is no mere location—it’s a television set, where Russell T Davies, the visionary behind countless acclaimed dramas, is in conversation with Alan Cumming, the charismatic actor whose presence has long been a fixture in his work. The BBC has secured exclusive access to the set of Tip Toe, a thriller that promises to blend drama with sharp commentary on modern societal tensions.
Tip Toe centers on two neighbors, one gay and one straight, whose feud intensifies as one of them becomes ensnared in the labyrinth of online disinformation. The story’s premise is both timely and provocative, tackling issues that resonate deeply in today’s digital age. While Davies has a history of weaving humor into serious themes, from the campy yet poignant *It’s a Sin* to the satirical *Years and Years*, this latest project takes a more grounded approach. “I see the world getting worse and worse these days,” he remarks, his tone tinged with urgency. “It’s hard not to feel worried about the future for my nieces and nephews.” The show, he insists, is a reflection of the current climate, where misinformation spreads faster than truth.
At the heart of the series is Leo Struthers, a 59-year-old bar owner in Manchester’s Gay Village, portrayed by Alan Cumming. His role marks a personal milestone for Davies, who has long sought to collaborate with the actor. “It’s been over two decades of trying to get him on board,” Davies reveals, his excitement palpable. Cumming, however, was drawn to the project before the script was finalized. The twist? His character is already dead in the first episode. “As the series progresses, you almost forget he’s not alive,” Cumming explains, his voice carrying a mix of intrigue and admiration. “It’s a clever way to hook the audience—it’s suspenseful and keeps you guessing about the timeline and the cause of his demise.” The actor describes the concept as both “relevant” and “needed,” emphasizing its role in capturing the fragility of modern relationships.
Joining Cumming in the cast is David Morrissey, who plays Clive Goss, Leo’s next-door neighbor. Their collaboration, though new, is rooted in a friendship that has spanned over four decades. “We’ve been real-life neighbors once,” Morrissey jokes, adding that their bond allows for a unique dynamic on set. The pair face intense emotional scenes, particularly in Clive’s home, where the tension between them reaches a boiling point. “We can be confrontational in a scene,” Morrissey notes, “but when the director yells ‘Cut!’—well, we’re often hugging and reassuring each other. It’s a beautiful contrast between the drama and the humanity beneath it.” This interplay of conflict and camaraderie is a hallmark of Davies’ storytelling, balancing sharp dialogue with heartfelt moments.
Among the younger cast members, Joseph Evans and Jackson Connor bring a fresh energy as Saul and George Goss, Clive’s sons. Their on-screen chemistry mirrors their real-life connection, though they’re still newcomers to Davies’ projects. During a break between filming a tense scene with their father, they sit in a makeshift “front garden”—a plywood set in a Manchester film studio—chatting like siblings. “We look like brothers, and we act like them,” Evans quips, as Connor chimes in with a witty remark. Their familiarity with each other adds authenticity to the portrayal of familial bonds, even as their characters navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving world.
Davies’ career has long been defined by his ability to tackle societal issues through compelling narratives. His 1999 series *Queer as Folk* was a cultural landmark, breaking barriers for LGBTQ+ representation on screen. At the time, the show’s creators imagined a future where equality was a given. “When we were filming *Queer as Folk*, I thought, ‘In 25 years, we’ll have achieved equality, and everyone will be hand-in-hand, skipping down the street,'” Davies recalls with a wry smile. Yet, over the past 26 years, he notes a shift. “Things have started to sour,” he says. “There’s more hostility in the air, and more aggression toward us.” This sense of urgency is what fuels *Tip Toe*, a project that feels deeply personal and politically charged.
Despite the show’s gravity, Davies remains optimistic about its potential to spark change. “I wish television could change the world,” he admits. “I’d have written more and altered things faster if I could.” His past work has demonstrated this ambition: *It’s a Sin* led to a surge in HIV testing rates, while *Mr Bates vs The Post Office* shed light on the Horizon IT scandal. “We don’t just entertain—we educate and provoke thought,” he says. The themes of *Tip Toe* are designed to challenge viewers, forcing them to confront the consequences of disinformation and the erosion of trust in both personal and public spheres.
As the series progresses, the twist of Leo’s death becomes a narrative device that keeps audiences engaged. “It’s a bold choice, but it works,” Cumming observes. “You’re drawn into the mystery of how and when he died, even as you grow attached to his character.” The show’s creators have crafted a storyline that balances suspense with social critique, ensuring that the thriller doesn’t just entertain but also makes a statement. For Davies, this is a return to the roots of his storytelling, where personal stories intersect with larger societal issues.
Looking ahead, Davies has no shortage of inspiration. “While the world keeps changing, there will always be something new to write about,” he states. “That’s the plan—I’ll just keep going.” His commitment to addressing contemporary issues is evident in every detail of *Tip Toe*, from its setting to its characters. As the first two episodes debut on Channel 4, viewers can expect a gripping narrative that lingers on the edge of the possible. “It’s a show that will make you think, feel, and question the world around you,” Davies concludes. “That’s the goal, and I’m ready to see where it takes us.”
Episode 1 and 2 of *Tip Toe* are set to premiere on Channel 4 on Sunday, 31 May, and Monday, 1 June, offering a compelling glimpse into the world Davies has crafted. With its blend of suspense, humor, and social commentary, the series is poised to make a significant impact, proving that even in the face of a worsening world, there is still room for stories that challenge, connect, and inspire.