Starz secures North American rights for Russell T Davies’ ‘Tip Toe’

Premium programmer STARZ has officially secured the exclusive United States and English-speaking Canadian broadcasting rights for Tip Toe, the darkly witty and explosive suspense drama written by BAFTA award-winning showrunner Russell T Davies. The five-part miniseries recently premiered in the United Kingdom on Channel 4 to widespread critical acclaim, receiving praise for its sharp social commentary and core performances. This high-profile international acquisition strengthens the streaming platform's late 2026 content slate, reinforcing its corporate commitment to delivering inclusive, sophisticated, and provocative adult storytelling for diverse global audiences.

Produced by Quay Street Productions, a subsidiary of ITV Studios, the narrative centers on the volatile relationship between Leo, played by Alan Cumming, and Clive, portrayed by David Morrissey, who have lived as next-door neighbors in Manchester for fifteen years. The stability of their daily lives deteriorates rapidly as regional cultural anxieties escalate, radicalizing personal opinions and turning long-time neighbors into deadly adversaries. The plot leverages Leo’s position as a queer bar owner on Canal Street and Clive’s perspective as a working-class electrician raising two teenage sons to dissect the subtle return of societal prejudices, creating a tense thriller framework that speaks directly to modern cultural polarization.

The creative team features executive producers Nicola Shindler and writer Russell T Davies, alongside director Peter Hoar, who previously helmed the critically acclaimed drama It’s a Sin. The ensemble supporting cast includes notable British television talent such as Pooky Quesnel, Elizabeth Berrington, Paul Rhys, and Jackson Connor. Alison Hoffman, President of STARZ Networks, emphasized that the series addresses current cultural anxieties through a devastating yet profoundly human lens, fitting perfectly with the network's strategy of championing daring acquisitions alongside established original franchises. The licensing agreement was finalized by ITV Studios' global sales division, which oversees the international distribution of the property.

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