Alan Cumming and David Morrissey to star in Russell T Davies’ new Channel 4 drama Tip Toe
"I don’t say this lightly, but this is truly an honour," says Cumming, starring alongside Morrissey in the upcoming Channel 4 drama
By Aaron Sugg
Filming has officially begun for Channel 4’s new upcoming drama Tip Toe, written by Russell T Davies, starring Alan Cumming and David Morrissey in leading roles.
Set around Manchester’s Gay Village, the five-part-series follows Cumming as Leo and Morrissey as Clive, neighbours of 15 years who become deadly enemies due to societal tensions.
Challenging everything that we know as safe, Davies has written what is described as “an urgent tale that brings a spotlight to bear on the prejudices which are creeping back into our lives”.
“I don’t say this lightly, but this is truly an honour” – Alan Cumming on playing a lead role in Russell T Davies’ Tip Toe
Leo is a gay man, vivid, funny and dynamic, and the owner of Spit & Polish, a bar in the heart of Manchester Pride.
Cumming, who is bisexual, said in a statement: “The best things in life are worth waiting for, and the best people. Russell T Davies and I have been trying to work together for over 20 years. Now, not only are we working together but doing so with one of my dearest, oldest friends, Dave Morrissey, and in a piece of work I think is so brilliant and prescient and necessary.”
He added: “I don’t say this lightly, but this is truly an honour.”
Described as “a tense, suburban thriller”, Tip Toe will explore radicalisation, prejudice and what happens when once safe spaces feel under threat.
“I’m delighted to be working with Russell again, and also to be working with Alan” – David Morrissey on working with Alan Cumming in Tip Toe
Morrissey, who plays Clive, Leo’s unsmiling and troubled neighbour, said: “I’m delighted to be working with Russell again, and also to be working with Alan who has been a great friend of mine for over 40 years but we’ve never had the chance to work together. It’s a privilege to be with them both on this astonishing piece of work.”
The multi-BAFTA-winning writer is known for his work on It’s a Sin, Queer as Folk and Years and Years, often exploring themes of identity, challenging prevailing conservative attitudes.
Last month, Davies spoke out about his fears surrounding gay rights, telling The Big Issue: “As we look down the barrel of a Reform government, we, the gay community… should be revolting,” in response to Nigel Farage’s party gaining support and the influence of Donald Trump.
Before filming, the Doctor Who showrunner said the Tip Toe series will examine “the most corrosive forces facing the LGBTQ+ community today.”
The supporting cast includes Pooky Quesnel, Elizabeth Berrington, Charlie Condou, and Denise Welch, among others.
Tip Toe is set to appear on our TV screens on Channel 4 in 2026, which specifics yet to be announced.