Warner Bros. Discovery Acquires LGBTQ+ Drama 'Tip Toe' for European HBO Max
Warner Bros. Discovery has secured the broadcast rights for "Tip Toe," the acclaimed queer drama miniseries penned by Russell T Davies, for HBO Max across 14 European countries. The news, which broke in June 2026, expands the series' global reach, as it had previously been acquired by STARZ for the United States and Canada.
European Reach Expanded for 'Tip Toe'
The territories set to receive "Tip Toe" on HBO Max include Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. Jemma Harvey, EVP of Sales and Distribution EMEA & UK at ITV Studios, expressed her excitement about the partnership, highlighting the story's relevance and impact.
Harvey stated: "We are thrilled to partner with HBO Max to bring Tip Toe, such a timely and impactful drama, to audiences across Europe. Russell T Davies has brought a deeply resonant and powerful story to the screen, and it’s wonderful to see it find a home on HBO Max for viewers across Europe to enjoy."
Synopsis and Stellar Cast
The original five-part series was produced for Channel 4 and features performances from Alan Cumming and David Morrissey. "Tip Toe" chronicles the lives of Leo and Clive, neighbors in Manchester for nearly 15 years. Amidst an increasingly tense world, their lives spiral into a deadly rivalry, exploring how words become weapons and opinions become radicalized.
The drama challenges perceptions of safety and exposes emerging prejudices within society. The narrative is enriched by a diverse cast, including Pooky Quesnel as Marie, Clive's wife; Jackson Connor and Joseph Evans as sons George and Saul, respectively. Rounding out the cast are Elizabeth Berrington as Stephanie, Leo's friend; Iz Hesketh and Shakeel Kimotho as Zee and Hanna, colleagues at Spit & Polish; Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nyawo as Judy, a bar manager; Paul Rhys as Melba, a familiar figure on Canal Street; Charlie Condou as Curtis, Leo's ex-husband; and Denise Welch as Diane.
Production and Distribution
"Tip Toe" is a Quay Street Productions production. Nicola Shindler, CEO of Quay Street Productions, Russell T Davies, Peter Hoar, and Alan Cumming serve as executive producers. Phil Collinson is the producer, Peter Hoar directs the series, and Andy Pryor is the casting director. The production is associated with ITV Studios, which is responsible for international distribution.