Alan Cumming has shared the emotional impact of his character Leo Struthers' violent death in the Channel 4 drama Tip Toe, following the series' shocking finale.
Behind the Harrowing Finale
The Russell T Davies series concluded on Thursday night, unveiling how Leo met his fate after being seen hanging from a lamppost in the opening scenes. The drama explored tensions between Leo, owner of a gay bar on Manchester's Canal Street, and his straight neighbour Clive, played by David Morrissey.
Speaking to Metro, Cumming revealed: "[Leo's] death was the first thing I talked to Russell about before I got the script. I knew he'd die, but the ferociousness of it, I thought, was brilliant."
Traumatic Filming Experience
Cumming admitted the scene "affected" him deeply. Despite the crew being "so kind and caring about it," he described it as "so traumatic to do." He added: "Just having something around your neck like that is so traumatic."
Production paused for a week after the emotionally demanding scene. Cumming noted that by the time he returned, his perspective had shifted, and he felt ready to complete the project.
Connection to the Character
Cumming expressed his enjoyment of working on the series and playing Leo, calling the role "particularly rewarding." He had long wanted to collaborate with Russell T Davies and described Leo as "an incredible character."
He reflected: "It's an incredible part, and for a man of my age and my sexuality and my place in life, everything about it is just the perfect confluence, and yet it was the part that I think I have most wanted to be over. I had such fun. I loved the people, but him, the heaviness of [Leo], what I carried, it was very difficult."
Cumming confessed that some aspects of the show lingered: "Inevitably, any character [you play], there's you in it, your spirit. So I was murdered by a group of people who think I am worthless, and it takes you a while to get over that. I really connected with Leo. I've got a lot in common with them… it was really, really difficult, and I am very emotional about it."
Tip Toe is available to watch on Channel 4.
