A Manchester-shot drama from one of the North’s most celebrated writers is heading across the Atlantic after securing a major North American streaming deal.
STARZ has acquired the exclusive US and English Canada rights to Tip Toe, the five-part thriller from acclaimed screenwriter Russell T Davies, following its recent debut on Channel 4.
Produced by ITV Studios-owned Quay Street Productions, the series was filmed entirely in Manchester and stars Alan Cumming and David Morrissey as neighbours whose relationship descends into a bitter and dangerous feud.
The acquisition follows a critically acclaimed UK launch for the drama, which explores rising tensions, radicalisation and prejudice through the story of two families living side-by-side in Manchester.
Set around Canal Street, Leo (Cumming) runs a bar in the heart of the city’s LGBTQ+ community, while Clive (Morrissey) is an electrician raising two teenage sons. As divisions deepen, the pair become locked in a conflict that Davies has described as reflecting some of the most pressing issues facing society today.
Alison Hoffman, President of STARZ Networks, said: “Russell T Davies has created a gripping and deeply affecting series that speaks directly to the cultural tensions and anxieties shaping modern life.
“Anchored by extraordinary performances from Alan Cumming and David Morrissey, ‘Tip Toe’ examines identity, fear, and polarization in our society in a way that is at once funny, devastating and profoundly human. It’s exactly the type of daring and original storytelling that we’re dedicated and proud to champion at STARZ.”
Davies added: “It’s my great delight to return to STARZ after many years.
“Tip Toe’s launch in the U.K. has shown that audiences are hungry for strong, bold, opinionated material – and that’s a perfect fit for STARZ!”
Tom Clark, EVP, Global Sales & Commercial Strategy at ITV Studios, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to partner with STARZ to bring this exceptional series to American audiences.
“‘Tip Toe’ delivers bold and distinctive storytelling that resonates globally, and after an impactful debut in the U.K., we can’t wait for U.S. viewers to experience this gripping drama.”
The series marks another international success for Manchester-based producer Nicola Shindler and Quay Street Productions, the company behind hits including Happy Valley and It’s a Sin.
Alongside Cumming and Morrissey, the cast includes Denise Welch, Charlie Condou, Pooky Quesnel and Paul Rhys.
The deal was brokered by Katie Buchanan and Rob Kaplan at ITV Studios, which is handling international distribution for the series.
