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‘How often I’m called a paedophile online is shocking’: inside Russell T Davies’s horrifying drama about rising hatred
The creator of It’s a Sin is back – and he’s furious. His new series, Tip Toe, explores the rise of homophobia through a feud between two Manchester neighbours. He and stars Alan Cumming and David Morrissey talk death, fear and ‘joy as a form of protest’
TL;DR
- The Channel 4 drama 'Tip Toe' by Russell T Davies focuses on a feud between gay bar manager Leo and his neighbour Clive, set in Manchester's queer scene.
- The series explores how political rhetoric, online bullying, and misinformation can fuel conflict and reflect a rise in intolerance and violence against the LGBTQ+ community.
- Davies expresses frustration with the current climate, noting that increased visibility has not led to continued progress, but rather to anger and a sense that people are now more aware in their harmful actions.
- The drama investigates the reasons behind characters' choices, particularly Clive's descent into anger, which is fueled by online validation and a feeling of being ostracized.
- Despite the dark themes, the series also highlights solidarity, camaraderie, and 'queer joy' as a form of protest and resilience.