Phil Dunning's 'big old queer show' to return

The BBC has ordered a second series of Smoggie Queens.

The sitcom –  which  around 600,000 viewers per episode when it aired late last year –  is written and created by Middlesbrough native Phil Dunning, who also plays drag queen Dickie

He said he was ‘really made up that the BBC have recommissioned Smoggie Queens. I’ve pencilled it in my diary.’

Also returning are Mark Benton and Mam, Alexandra Mardell as Lucinda,  Patsy Lowe as Sal and Elijah Young as Stewart.

 The BBC say of the second series: ‘Showing what the North East is made of and the resilience of the queer community, the gang forge ahead with new relationships and rekindle some old ones, all while they cement those chosen family bonds. Expect more mad antics and chaotic energy as the Queens take you on (another) ride of your life!’

Six new episodes will be made by Hat Trick, whose managing director Jimmy Mulville said: ‘We all need a feel-good, laugh out loud show to watch, so thank God Smoggie Queens is coming back! Who doesn't want to hang out with the funniest, craziest and most lovable crew on telly at the moment.’

And producer Chris Jones, added: ‘So glad we get to go back to the Boro for more Smoggie Queens. Really grateful to the BBC for giving this big old queer show another run.'

The series was recommissioned by Jon Petrie, the director of BBC comedy, who said: ‘Smoggie Queens is back—along with the wigs, the big laughs, and the brilliantly chaotic energy that made us fall in love with Dickie and the gang. This show is something special.’

The show recently won best comedy at the Royal Television Society North East Awards, where Dunning was named best newcomer.

Series one was  also praised by critics with The Guardian saying: ‘It’s loud, proud and very, very daft: the new BBC comedy plunges viewers into Middlesbrough’s hilariously catty drag scene’ and The i calling it ‘a surreal love letter to Middlesbrough’.

Published: 24 Mar 2025