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Series Mania founder and general director Laurence Herszberg has announced that internationally acclaimed showrunner Russell T Davies and BAFTA-winning producer Nicola Shindler will lead a Talent Masterclass at this year’s Series Mania Forum, taking place March 24–26 in Lille. The Forum serves as the industry arm of the Series Mania Festival, which runs from March 20–27.

Davies and Shindler share an extensive creative partnership spanning more than two decades, with joint credits including "Tip Toe", "Years & Years", "It’s a Sin", "Nolly" and "Queer as Folk". Shindler, who received the Forum’s ‘Woman in Series Award’ in 2023, will join Davies for the masterclass on March 25 at the Lille Grand Palais.

The session will focus on their upcoming five-part drama series, "Tip Toe", Channel 4’s new flagship drama for 2026. Produced by Quay Street Productions in association with ITV Studios, which will handle international distribution, the series stars Alan Cumming and David Morrissey and examines the corrosive impact of prejudice as it resurfaces within contemporary society, particularly affecting the LGBTQ+ community.

During the exclusive masterclass, Davies and Shindler will present first-look clips from the series and discuss its creative vision, exploring the project’s origins, themes and the process of delivering ambitious, large-scale drama for today’s audiences.

“I am delighted to be welcoming the wonderful Nicola back to Series Mania Forum along with Russell, one of today’s most prolific showrunners. Together they have collaborated for more than two decades and have been behind some of the most talked-about and emotionally resonant television of recent years, connecting with audiences worldwide. I have no doubt Tip Toe will be another masterpiece in their remarkable and long-standing creative partnership,” commented Herszberg.

Russell T Davies adds, “I’m delighted to be taking part, and many thanks to Series Mania for being so kind and welcoming. Allons-y!”