Fresh off his Doctor Who exit, Russell T. Davies is bringing his latest project stateside. The acclaimed creator's tense drama Tip Toe has been picked up by Starz for a US premiere later this year, following a strong run on Channel 4 in the UK.
The five-part series, which debuted in late May, quickly became a ratings hit across the pond, peaking at over 1 million viewers and winning its Sunday 9 PM time slot. Now, just eight days after its finale aired, American audiences will get their chance to see what all the fuss is about.
Davies, who recently left Doctor Who amid a turbulent period for the sci-fi franchise, expressed his excitement about returning to Starz. “It’s my great delight to return to STARZ after many years,” he said in a statement. “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!”
Alison Hoffman, President of Starz Networks, echoed that sentiment, calling the series “a gripping and deeply affecting series that speaks directly to the cultural tensions and anxieties shaping modern life.”
The show stars five-time Emmy winner Alan Cumming and Sherwood’s David Morrissey as neighbors whose long-standing friendship turns into a deadly rivalry as societal tensions escalate. The supporting cast includes Pooky Quesnel, Jackson Connor, Joseph Evans, Elizabeth Berrington, Iz Hesketh, and Shakeel Kimotho.
British critics have been effusive in their praise. Radio Times called it “an urgent state-of-the-nation drama,” while The Times described it as “Russell T. Davies at his crusading, passionate best.” The series is being hailed as a timely exploration of prejudice and radicalization, resonating with both queer audiences and the broader public.
Davies’ departure from Doctor Who has been a hot topic, especially after a partnership with Disney fell through and star Ncuti Gatwa left under controversial circumstances. In a statement, Davies said, “And so GOODBYE from me to Doctor Who but HELLO to a big new future for the show, as the BBC announces it’s putting the show out to tender. As a result, there won’t be a Christmas Special.” For more on that, check out Russell T. Davies Sets Record Straight on Doctor Who 'Cancellation' Rumors.
Tip Toe is set to premiere on Starz later this year. In the meantime, fans can catch Davies’ recent Doctor Who seasons on Disney+. For more on the state of international TV imports, see HBO Max's 'Make That Movie' Is the Year's Funniest Show—But Americans Can't Watch It.
