Channel 4 viewers have hailed the network's latest drama, Tip Toe, as a "masterpiece" after its first episode delivered a harrowing and unforgettable scene that left many feeling deeply moved.
A Powerful Opening
The five-part series, written by acclaimed screenwriter Russell T Davies (It's A Sin), premiered on Sunday, 31 May, and has already captivated audiences just two episodes in. The thriller delves into the alarming rise of homophobia through a tense, spiralling conflict between two neighbours that escalates to devastating extremes.
The story centres on Leo (Alan Cumming), who runs a bar called Spit & Polish in Manchester's Gay Village, and Clive (David Morrissey), his stern and troubled neighbour, with whom he has shared a boundary for nearly 15 years. The synopsis warns: "But just as life should be settling down, the world around them is growing more tense. Words become weapons, opinions become radicalised, and gradually, two neighbours become deadly enemies in a tense, suburban thriller which challenges everything we consider to be safe."
The first episode opens with a disturbing scene: viewers see Leo's lifeless body hanging from a lamppost. Police sirens wail in the distance as screams ring out from those forced to witness the traumatic event. "Monster! You monster!" a woman screams at her husband from their front door.
Viewer Reactions
Following the hard-hitting opening, viewers have taken to social media to share their reactions. One fan commented: "I got chills watching this." Another wrote: "Very powerful." A third added: "Oh my god, incredible. I'm hooked already!" Another viewer said: "The most powerful scene." One remarked: "Very gripping. I had to watch the second episode straight away." Another fan noted: "I have goosebumps. What a devastatingly beautiful oration." Meanwhile, another demanded: "TIP TOE. RELEASE ALL THE EPISODES NOW!!! Another masterpiece!!!"
Cast Insights
During a recent episode of ITV's Third Morning, Alan Cumming described the scene as "overwhelming and brutal." He explained: "It's about the way that violence and hatred are sort of normalised so much in our culture nowadays. It's hopefully a wake-up call for everybody."
Tip Toe episodes 1 and 2 are available now on Channel 4. The series continues with episode 3 on Sunday, 7 June at 9pm.
