Scripted

STARZ Acquires Queer Drama Tip Toe Starring Alan Cumming and David Morrissey

STARZ Acquires Queer Drama Tip Toe Starring Alan Cumming and David Morrissey
STARZ has acquired exclusive U.S. and English-language Canada rights to Tip Toe, a five-part darkly comic thriller from BAFTA-winning writer Russell T Davies (It’s a Sin), with the series set to premiere in 2026. The drama, produced by Quay Street Productions in association with ITV Studios, explores escalating social tensions and prejudice within contemporary Britain through the story of two long-time neighbours whose relationship turns increasingly hostile.

Starring Alan Cumming and David Morrissey, the series follows Leo and Clive, neighbours in Manchester who have lived side by side for nearly 15 years. Leo runs a bar on Canal Street, while Clive works as an electrician and is raising two teenage sons. As societal pressures intensify, their once-stable coexistence deteriorates into a dangerous conflict, turning everyday disagreements into ideological and personal confrontation.
The series originally premiered in the UK on Channel 4 to strong critical reception, with praise for both its performances and its writing. Reviews described it as a sharp and timely social drama reflecting current cultural tensions.

Alison Hoffman, President of STARZ Networks, said: “Russell T Davies has created a gripping and deeply affecting series that speaks directly to the cultural tensions and anxieties shaping modern life,” adding that the show examines identity, fear and polarisation through a mix of humour, emotional depth and drama.
Russell T Davies, executive producer, said: “It’s my great delight to return to STARZ after many years,” noting that the UK reception demonstrated audience appetite for bold and provocative storytelling."
Tom Clark, EVP Global Sales & Commercial Strategy at ITV Studios, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to partner with STARZ to bring this exceptional series to American audiences,” highlighting the show’s strong international appeal following its UK launch.

Filmed in Manchester, Tip Toe also features Pooky Quesnel, Jackson Connor, Joseph Evans, Elizabeth Berrington, Iz Hesketh, Shakeel Kimotho, Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nyawo, Paul Rhys, Charlie Condou and Denise Welch in supporting roles.
The series is produced by Quay Street Productions with Nicola Shindler, Russell T Davies, Peter Hoar and Alan Cumming among the executive producers. It is directed by Peter Hoar and cast by Andy Pryor, with ITV Studios handling international distribution. The deal was brokered by Katie Buchanan and Rob Kaplan at ITV Studios.
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