The recent BBC series Smoggie Queens has garnered considerable acclaim from viewers, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. The show, set in Middlesbrough, about a group of diverse characters, primarily inhabiting the queer spectrum has been a smash hit, especially with cast member Michelle Visage. The main characters include Volatile Dickie, played by Phil Dunning who also serves as the writer for the series, drag queen Mam portrayed by Mark Benton, Lucinda as played by Alexandra Mardell, Sal by Patsy Lowe, and the newcomer Stewart, brought to life by Elijah Young.
Fans and critics are bigging up Smoggie Queens for its authenticity and unique portrayal of life in Middlesbrough. Social media reactions have exploded with enthusiasm, with viewers lauding the series as a blend of humour and emotional depth. “Just binged watched Smoggie Queens, omfg it was bloody brilliant, was a roller coaster of emotions but very funny with a great cast esp Phil Dunning who plays Dickie & also wrote the series, hope there’s a series 2,” one viewer remarked, while another expressed their appreciation, stating, “Wasn’t sure what to expect with this but have to say I really loved it.”
The series features several notable guest appearances including Charlotte Riley from Peaky Blinders and Michelle Visage, best known for her role on RuPaul’s Drag Race, who described the series to JAKE News as “such a fun, hysterical, demented love letter to Middlesborough” adding, “It was an incredible experience and I hope we get a series two because Elaine [her character, pictured] needs to have a comeback.”
Viewer comments such as “Please tell me that #smoggiequeens will have a second series!” and “Just finished the entire series of #SmoggieQueens on @BBCiPlayer. And, it was absolutely brilliant! Hilarious, heartwarming and sad in parts,” illustrate the longing for the continuation of this storytelling that resonates with themes of identity and community within the LGBTQ+ experience. So come on BBC, get commissioning!
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.thepinknews.com/2024/11/28/bbc-drag-sitcom-smoggie-queens-interview/ – Corroborates the main characters, setting, and the comedic tone of the series ‘Smoggie Queens’.
- https://jakeldn.com/sitcom-smoggie-queens-celebrates-gay-life-in-middlesbrough/ – Provides details on the main characters, the writer and star Phil Dunning, and the show’s focus on the LGBTQ+ community in Middlesbrough.
- https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a63069931/smoggie-queens-bbc-review/ – Supports the praise for the series’ authenticity, unique portrayal, and blend of humor and emotional depth.
- https://www.thepinknews.com/2024/06/19/bbc-comedy-smoggie-queens-queer-stories/ – Explains the importance of the series in platforming queer artists and its focus on the LGBTQ+ community in Middlesbrough.
- https://www.thepinknews.com/2024/11/28/bbc-drag-sitcom-smoggie-queens-interview/ – Mentions the guest appearances, including Michelle Visage, and the show’s connection to Middlesbrough Pride.
- https://jakeldn.com/sitcom-smoggie-queens-celebrates-gay-life-in-middlesbrough/ – Details the involvement of notable actors such as Michelle Visage and Charlotte Riley, enhancing the show’s appeal.
- https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a63069931/smoggie-queens-bbc-review/ – Highlights the positive social media reactions and the viewers’ enthusiasm for the series.
- https://www.thepinknews.com/2024/06/19/bbc-comedy-smoggie-queens-queer-stories/ – Discusses the show’s unique charm and its representation of small, close-knit communities within the LGBTQ+ experience.
- https://jakeldn.com/sitcom-smoggie-queens-celebrates-gay-life-in-middlesbrough/ – Corroborates the show’s commitment to showcasing regional pride and LGBTQ+ representation.
- https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a63069931/smoggie-queens-bbc-review/ – Supports the anticipation and hope for a second series among viewers.