Warner Bros. Discovery Acquires LGBTQ+ Drama 'Tip Toe' for European HBO Max

Warner Bros. Discovery has secured the exhibition rights to "Tip Toe", the acclaimed queer drama miniseries written by Russell T Davies, for HBO Max in 14 European countries. The news, reported in June 2026, expands the global reach of the series, which had already been acquired by STARZ for the United States and Canada.

Expanded European Reach for 'Tip Toe'

The territories receiving "Tip Toe" on HBO Max include Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. Jemma Harvey, EVP of EMEA & UK Sales and Distribution at ITV Studios, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the relevance and impact of the story.

Harvey said: “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 to screens a deeply resonant and powerful story, and it is wonderful to see it find a home on HBO Max so viewers across Europe can enjoy it.”

Synopsis and Star-Studded Cast

The original five-episode series was produced for Channel 4 and stars Alan Cumming and David Morrissey. "Tip Toe" tells the story of Leo and Clive, neighbors in Manchester for nearly 15 years. Amid an increasingly tense world, their lives turn into a deadly rivalry, exploring how words become weapons and opinions become radicalized.

The drama challenges perceptions of safety and exposes emerging prejudices in society. The plot 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. Completing the cast are Elizabeth Berrington as Stephanie, Leo’s friend; Iz Hesketh and Shakeel Kimotho as Zee and Hanna, co-workers at Spit & Polish; Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nyawo as Judy, a bar manager; Paul Rhys as Melba, a well-known 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, responsible for international distribution.