In exciting news for fans of the vibrant and hilarious British sitcom, Smoggie Queens, it has officially been recommissioned by the BBC for a second series, set to air later in 2025 on BBC Three and BBC iPlayer. Created and written by Middlesbrough’s own Phil Dunning, the comedy series recently made waves in the television scene, claiming the prestigious Best Comedy award at the RTS North East Awards. Dunning himself also picked up the accolade for Best Newcomer, marking a significant recognition of his remarkable talent.
Following its stunning debut in late 2024, Smoggie Queens captured the hearts of viewers, amassing a devoted fanbase with its delightful combination of slapstick humor, heartwarming moments, and a unique perspective on the LGBTQ+ experience in the North East of England. The upcoming series promises to deliver more of the side-splitting laughs and relatable antics, with a focus on the chaos and camaraderie found within the lives of its central characters.
The series features an ensemble cast, with Dunning playing Dickie, alongside fellow characters Mam (Mark Benton), Lucinda (Alexandra Mardell), Sal (Patsy Lowe), and newcomer Stewart (Elijah Young). Fans can expect to see the original cast members reunite to navigate new relationships and rekindle old friendships, all set against the backdrop of Middlesbrough’s distinct culture.
Producer Chris Jones expressed enthusiasm for the show’s future, saying, “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.” Similarly, Jon Petrie, the BBC Director of Comedy, shared his excitement: “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 production is backed by Hat Trick Productions, a reputable name in British television known for hits like Derry Girls and Have I Got News For You, which continues to support innovative narratives and diverse voices in comedy. As further testament to the show’s local roots and its commitment to promoting North East talent, the North East Screen Industries Partnership provided additional funding for the series.
North East Screen’s Operations Director, Gayle Woodruffe, stated, “We’re thrilled that North East Production Fund supported Smoggie Queens is back for season two, and excited to see what Dickie and his chosen family get up to next. Continuing to work with the great team at Hat Trick allows us to create even more pipelines to industry for our brilliant on and off-screen talent.”
Since premiering, Smoggie Queens has become known for its engaging storytelling that melds humor with social commentary, showcasing the dynamics of the queer community within a Northern English setting. This representation resonates deeply with audiences who may be seeking similar stories that reflect their own lives and experiences.
The upcoming season is expected to unveil a series of fresh and delightful escapades that highlight the originality of the show’s characters while maintaining the light-heartedness that viewers have come to love. The excitement surrounding the recommissioning has ignited discussions about the potential for further development, including plot twists that could amplify character dynamics.
Jimmy Mulville, Managing Director of Hat Trick Productions, chimed in on the optimism surrounding the show’s second installment, adding, “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?” His sentiments underscore the widespread longing for joy and relatable content during challenging times, making shows like this even more significant.
Fans anticipating the new season will be delighted to know that all episodes from the first season are currently available for streaming on BBC iPlayer, ensuring no viewer is left behind as they gear up for more hilarious adventures. Furthermore, while there is no confirmed report on the return of some supporting characters, such as Michelle Visage and Charlotte Riley, the focus remains on the core cast who have established strong connections with the audience.
With a unique blend of humor, culture, and authenticity, Smoggie Queens embodies the spirit of community through its character-driven storytelling and can be credited with fostering increased visibility for the LGBTQ+ community in mainstream media.
As the UK continues to embrace diverse stories, Smoggie Queens reminds viewers of the importance of laughter in overcoming life's challenges. With its charm and endearing characters, the second series is highly anticipated and undoubtedly poised to make an impact once more.
