Behind the scenes of Russell T Davies’ twisty new thriller, Tip Toe

Behind the scenes of Russell T Davies – It’s a sunny afternoon in Manchester, and the air hums with the sound of cameras rolling. A familiar sight unfolds: a modest kitchen, its shelves lined with everyday items, and a dining table cluttered with utensils. At first glance, it seems like a typical setting in a terraced home. But as the light spills through the window, revealing the blue sky outside, the illusion is broken. This is not a real kitchen—it’s a film set. The man in the center, Alan Cumming, is the occupant of this space, while Russell T Davies, the show’s creator, sits across from him. The BBC has secured an exclusive peek into the production of Davies’ latest series, Tip Toe, which promises to explore the complexities of modern life through a lens of tension and revelation.

The Premise of a Modern Dilemma

Tip Toe centers on two neighbors—Leo Struthers and Clive Goss—who are locked in a bitter rivalry. As the series progresses, the conflict intensifies, driven by Leo’s growing entanglement with the realm of online disinformation. The stakes rise with each episode, culminating in a situation that has far-reaching consequences for both characters. Davies, known for his storytelling flair, says the series is a reflection of today’s societal challenges. “I see the world getting worse and worse these days,” he admits, his tone tinged with concern. “I’m worried about the future for my nieces and nephews.”

Davies has a history of tackling significant issues while infusing humor into his narratives. From the poignant exploration of HIV in It’s a Sin to the political satire of Years and Years, his work often balances serious themes with lighthearted moments. Yet Tip Toe marks a shift to contemporary settings. “This one is grounded in the here-and-now,” he explains. “It’s about the real problems we’re facing today.” The show’s relevance is underscored by its portrayal of how misinformation can erode trust, even between those who live side by side.

“I wish television could change the world,” Davies says. “I’d have written more and changed it faster if I could. I do feel bound to comment on the world though.”

A Unique Role for Alan Cumming

Davies’ decision to cast Alan Cumming as Leo Struthers is a personal milestone. The actor, who has long been a fixture in British television, plays a 59-year-old bar owner in Manchester’s Gay Village. Cumming’s involvement is not just a professional triumph but also a testament to Davies’ persistence over more than two decades. “The role of Leo was pitched to me before the script was even written,” Cumming reveals. “It was a bold move, and I was immediately drawn to the idea because of the twist at the start of episode one: my character is dead.”

“As the series unfolds, you almost forget I’m dead,” Cumming adds, reflecting on the narrative structure. “But the mystery of how and when it happens keeps the tension alive. It’s a clever way to hook the audience and make them question everything.” The concept, Cumming says, is both thrilling and timely. “It’s so relevant and so needed,” he emphasizes, noting the show’s ability to mirror real-world anxieties about identity, truth, and the consequences of online influence.

Collaboration and Chemistry on Set

David Morrissey, who portrays Clive Goss, the neighbor to Leo, joins Cumming in a cast that includes a mix of veteran actors and fresh faces. This is their first collaboration, despite having been friends for over 40 years. “We have to do some pretty tough stuff on screen,” Morrissey acknowledges, “but the great thing about working with a friend is that you can really push the boundaries.”

During a break from filming a tense scene in the Goss family home, Morrissey shares insights into the dynamic between the two leads. “We’re in a confrontational moment,” he says, “but the moment the director yells ‘cut,’ it’s like we’re in a different world.” The actors’ camaraderie adds a layer of authenticity to the drama, making their on-screen conflict feel more genuine. “We’re hugging each other and making sure we’re alright,” Morrissey adds, highlighting the emotional depth of their relationship.

Among the newcomers are Joseph Evans and Jackson Connor, who play the brothers Saul and George Goss. Their on-set interactions are as natural as their characters’. “You’d be forgiven for thinking they’re actually related,” a crew member observes, noting how the two young actors mimic the banter and bond of real siblings. “They finish each other’s sentences and mock one another with such ease.” Despite their relative lack of experience, their chemistry is evident, adding a sense of realism to the series.

Reflecting on Past Work and Future Vision

Davies’ groundbreaking series Queer as Folk, which debuted in 1999, was a cultural milestone in representing LGBTQ+ lives on screen. At the time, it challenged stereotypes and opened doors for more inclusive storytelling. “When we were shooting Queer as Folk, I imagined a future where gay life would be accepted and celebrated,” he recalls with a wry smile. “I thought we’d achieve equality and live in harmony.”

However, Davies now feels the progress has stalled. “We got close to that ideal about 10 years ago,” he says, “but lately, I sense more hostility and aggression towards queer communities.” This sentiment fuels his creative drive, prompting him to craft narratives that reflect the current climate. “The world keeps changing, and with it, the stories we need to tell,” he states. “That’s the plan—I’ll just keep going.”

As the production wraps up, the first two episodes of Tip Toe are set to air on Channel 4, with the debut on Sunday 31 May and the follow-up on Monday 1 June. The series aims to provoke thought, spark conversation, and offer a glimpse into the challenges of modern life. With its blend of suspense, humor, and social commentary, Tip Toe is poised to be another significant chapter in Russell T Davies’ career, one that bridges the past and present while looking ahead to the future.