These are dark times, so you’d better believe we’re in the market for something joyful and uplifting. And Smoggie Queens – with its big heart and even bigger laughs – might just prove the perfect antidote to the terrors of the 24/7 rolling news cycle.

Set in Middlesbrough (and penned by Phil Dunning), this treat of a BBC series follows a group of friends who are “fiercely proud of their town and their small pocket of the LGBTQ+ community”.

Fabulous stuff, right? Here’s what you need to know…

What is Smoggie Queens about?

Set in the heart of Middlesbrough, a quirky LGBTQ+ quintet tackles everything together – from Titanic-themed brunches and fairy godmother speed dating events to important reckonings on identity, acceptance and wigs galore.

Who stars in Smoggie Queens?

The aforementioned Dunning takes the lead in this one as the group’s volatile (and ever so slightly narcissistic) leader, Dickie. 

He’s joined by:

• Mark Benton as Mam, the matriarchal heart and home of Smoggie Queens 
• Alexandra Mardell as the unashamedly extra Lucinda
• Patsy Lowe as singer/songwriter Sal
• Elijah Young as Stewart, who is very much in the early stages of being out

What are people saying about Smoggie Queens?

“Chosen family can be everything to a queer person. Growing up, we naturally feel different and like we don’t fit in. To find others that accept and embrace you for who you are can be a lifeline,” says Middlesbrough native Dunning of this passion project.

“Apart from the obvious joy and elation, it’d be lovely for an audience to feel like they want to hang out with the queens.”

Mardell agrees, adding that “it really showcases the diversity in the queer community, and it’s a great way to open conversations”. 

“It’s 100% a show for all.”

When and where can we watch Smoggie Queens?

You can watch Smoggie Queens on BBC iPlayer and BBC Three on 28 November at 10.10pm.

Images: BBC