A new LGBTQ+ BBC sitcom set in Teesside with a “supporting cast” from the likes of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Peak Blinders and Ted Lasso airs tonight (November 28).

Smoggie Queens, based in Middlesbrough tells the story of “volatile” Dickie along with drag queen Mam, “self-styled” hun Lucinda, “awkward” Sal and newcomer Stewart as they “navigate life, acceptance and their love for a place that feels neglected in its own little corner of the UK”.

This BBC shares the comedy is “an underdog story on two fronts, so expect a few scraps that may send your wig flying.”

It adds: “You gotta be tough as old boots round these parts to get by and it’s safe to say that ‘passion’ and ‘pride’ are two words that come to our chosen family very easily, as they plunge into mad ventures like Titanic themed drag brunches, fairy godmother speed dating events, murder mysteries or headlining the main stage at Middlesbrough Pride.

“Queer friendship groups are chosen families and you’re more than welcome to join this lot.”

Smoggie Queens full cast list – who is in it?

Smoggie Queens stars famous faces from Coronation Street, Vera, Waterloo Road and more. The main cast includes:

  • Phil Dunning – Dickie
  • Mark Benton – Mam
  • Elijah Young – Stewart
  • Alexandra Mardell – Lucinda
  • Patsy Lowe – Sal

Most Popular Soap Operas in the UK

The supporting cast of the series features a “plethora of talent”, including RuPaul’s Drag Race star Michelle Visage and Boro’s own Steph McGovern, as well as Teesside actors Charlotte Riley (Peaky Blinders) and Bill Fellows (Ted Lasso), the BBC shares.

When is Smoggie Queens on TV? How to watch

You can watch Smoggie Queens on BBC iPlayer and BBC Three from 10.10pm today (November 28).

The first episode’s synopsis on Radio Times reveals: “Comedy about a gang of friends who are fiercely proud of their north-eastern town of Middlesbrough and their small pocket of the LGBTQ+ community.

“Dickie's friends rally around him when his boyfriend dumps him on the doorstep.

“He vows to fight for his love and win back his man. "

Recommended reading:

Smoggie Queens is written by Middlesbrough native Phil Dunning, who said “it was never an option” to film anywhere else but Middlesbrough.

He explained: “It had to be in Middlesbrough. Normally the only TV shows filmed in Boro are crime documentaries or programmes dedicated to finding the worst place to live in Britain.

“Smoggie Queens is a love letter to the town and highlights the warmth and humour of the people who live there.”