Funboys

BBC commissions two new comedies as part of search for next big UK sitcom

Two images. On the right-hand image, Ryan Dyland, Lee Dobbin and Rian Lennon stand in a dilapidated room, looking downwards. On the left-hand image, Elijah Young, Alexandra Mardell, Mark Benton, Phil Dunning, Patsy Lowe look into the camera

Smoggie Queens follows a group of friends down on their luck in Middlesborough who love their hometown, especially its LGBTQ+ scene. Writer Phil Dunning (Feel Good) stars as Dickie, and is joined by Mark Benton (Strictly Come Dancing), Alexandra Mardell (Coronation Street), Patsy Lowe (Vera) and Elijah Young. The gang struggle for acceptance, in a country that tends to turn its nose up at both Boro and the queer community. Spare a thought for those who belong to both.