Smoggie Queens: What we know so far about BBC show

Described as an "out and out comedy", the new show, which will feature six episodes, took over the likes of Centre Square in Middlesbrough and Egglescliffe Sixth Form last month.

Several stars were also spotted in character, leaving many onlookers wondering what the new show is all about, who is in the cast, and when they can expect to watch it on TV. 

Filming for 'Middlesbrough Pride' last month (Image: TERRY BLACKBURN)

We’ve rounded up everything we know so far on Smoggie Queens, so you know exactly what to expect from the show that will be “bursting with jokes and heart” when it hits the small screens. 

What is Smoggie Queens about? 

Smoggie Queens is a comedy series centred around a gang of friends, who are all fiercely proud of their town (Middlesbrough) and its small pocket of the LGBTQ+ community.

It will feature six episodes, with each lasting 30 minutes, and will see the group navigate their love, life, and pride for a town that feels neglected, in its own little corner of the north. 

Who is in the cast? 

Writer of Smoggie Queens and Middlesbrough native Phil Dunning will be heading up the show himself in the role of volatile Dickie. 

Guisborough-born actor and television presenter Mark Benton, known for his roles in the likes of Northern Lights, Early Doors, and Waterloo Road, will be playing drag queen ‘Mam’. 

He’s joined by Alexandra Mardell, best known for her role as Emma Brooker on Coronation Street, who will be playing self-styled hun Lucinda.

They are joined by Patsy Lowe (Vera) playing awkward Sal and Teesside actor Elijah Young, who will transform into newcomer Stewart. 

Where has Smoggie Queens been filming? 

Camera crews have been spotted at several locations across Teesside, most notably in Centre Square and the Teesside University campus, where scenes of a ‘Middlesbrough Pride’ event was filmed with the likes of Benton and Mardell. 

Mark Benton filming Smoggie Queens (Image: TERRY BLACKBURN)

Filming locations have so far also reportedly included The Middlesbrough Empire nightclub and at the back of Middlesbrough Town Hall.

This came months after Mardell and Benton were spotted filming inside an ice cream van at Hartlepool Headland for the show last October. 

Film crews in Hartlepool (Image: TERRY BLACKBURN)

TV trailers were also spotted at Egglescliffe School and Sixth Form College, on Urlay Nook Road, last month, with Yarm Councillor Andrew Sherris confirming that filming would be taking place in Yarm and surrounding areas. 

When is Smoggie Queens on TV - and where can I watch it?

Details regarding when the show will air have not yet been released. 

However, viewers will be able to tune in on both BBC Three and BBC iPlayer. 

The show is a Hat Trick production, which is known for shows including Derry Girls, Outnumbered, Have I Got News For You and Episodes.

It has also received funding support from the North East Screen Industries Partnership, which was delivered by North East Screen.
 

What has writer Phil Dunning said about the show?

He previously said: "I’m absolutely buzzing that the BBC are taking Smoggie Queens to series and I’m so grateful to them for allowing me to write such stupid and weird characters. 

“It’s been a beautiful dream working with Hat Trick, and the incredible cast already feel like my new chosen family.

“I can’t wait to introduce the sights, sounds and smells of Middlesbrough to the world."

What have other people said?

Chris Jones, Producer at Hat Trick Productions said: “Phil has a brilliantly funny, energetic and well-observed style to his writing.

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“It’s been extremely special to develop this fiercely proud chosen family sitcom with him along with exceptional support from BBC Comedy. We’re so excited to bring these characters to life through our very talented cast and crew.”

Jon Petrie, Director of BBC Comedy said: “Smoggie Queens is a show bursting with jokes and heart. Phil Dunning has concocted a brilliant ensemble piece that we know will refuse to go unnoticed!.”

Jimmy Mulville, Managing Director of Hat Trick Productions, added: “Smoggie Queens is a joy. Phil has created and stars in a show which is introducing us to our new best friends. They‘re the kind of people who look adversity in the eye and laugh! It’s just the tonic we need right now.”