A New Drama Confronts Rising Anti-LGBTIQ+ Hate Crimes
Tip Toe is a powerful drama that draws inspiration from the alarming increase in anti-LGBTIQ+ hate crimes in the UK since 2019. The series begins in the immediate aftermath of a violent incident, capturing the shock and anguish of four individuals reacting to a harrowing scene in the quiet streets of Manchester early in the morning. Their sobs and screams echo through the silence, setting the tone for a story that delves into the complexities of fear, identity, and community.
Set in 2026, Tip Toe follows the 10 days leading up to this traumatic event, focusing on a growing conflict between two neighbors: Leo, a flamboyant gay bar owner played by Alan Cumming, and Clive, a quietly menacing, out-of-work electrician portrayed by David Morrissey. This dynamic sets the stage for a narrative that explores the tensions between personal freedom and societal prejudice.
Created by Russell T. Davies, the renowned Welsh screenwriter known for revitalizing the Doctor Who franchise, Tip Toe is the latest addition to his impressive body of work in queer British television. His previous projects include the groundbreaking drama Queer as Folk, the dystopian sci-fi series Years and Years, and It’s a Sin, which depicted the AIDS epidemic in 1980s London. However, Tip Toe represents a new direction for Davies, one that channels fury and fear about current issues rather than reflecting on past or future failures.
While the series isn’t always eloquent or subtle—especially when characters deliver didactic rants about figures like Trump or trans rights—it brings an urgent message about the potential regression of equality for LGBTIQA+ people and other minorities. At 59 years old, Leo, who has lived through decades of activism, is reluctant to engage with these issues: “Now, I don’t have to care as much,” he tells his fiery friend Melba over drinks. “I have marched. Now it’s someone else’s turn.”
Leo’s life is filled with friends, romance, and his bar, Spit and Polish, located on Manchester’s Canal Street—a neighborhood famously depicted in Queer As Folk as a haven for the LGBTIQA+ community. However, the cultural landscape is shifting, as Melba points out: “If there’s a war, you’re on the frontline, my darling. You have trans bar staff – that’s the battleground right there.”
The series features a strong cast, with Paul Rhys delivering a compelling performance as Melba, whose alcohol-fueled monologues are both passionate and thought-provoking. Cumming brings his signature charisma to the role of Leo, portraying him as brash, bold, and defiant while occasionally revealing vulnerabilities that hint at a deeper, more complex character.
Morrissey’s portrayal of Clive is equally compelling, capturing the character’s icy aggression and hidden emotions. His performance suggests a simmering rage that could erupt at any moment, making him a formidable antagonist. The tension between Leo and Clive is palpable, highlighting the broader societal conflicts that the series aims to explore.
Other Highlights in the World of TV
Tip Toe is now available for streaming on Binge, offering viewers a thought-provoking look at contemporary issues facing the LGBTIQA+ community. For those interested in more TV recommendations, there are several other shows and documentaries worth exploring.
John Safran, known for his work on Race Around the World, has returned to his roots as a judge. He also appears in a new SBS documentary about free speech, providing insight into the challenges of maintaining open discourse.
Off Campus, a YA adaptation, has broken streaming records, and its Australian star, Josh Heuston, is receiving widespread acclaim. Meanwhile, The Assembly, a much-loved ABC show, is more than just “inspiration porn,” offering a nuanced portrayal of its characters and their struggles.
A new ABC documentary gives disgraced entertainer Rolf Harris’s Australian accusers a chance to share their stories, shedding light on the impact of his actions. Additionally, Deputy TV editor Meg Watson shares her recommendations for must-watch TV shows in a recent video.
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