The return of Smoggie Queens for its second season marks a triumphant moment for British comedy. The BBC show, which centers on a flamboyant drag queen named Dickie and his chosen family in Middlesbrough, has defied expectations by winning over audiences far beyond the LGBTQ+ community.
Unexpected Appeal
Creator and star Phil Dunning expressed surprise at the show's broad reach. 'We thought it would be quite niche being LGBTQ+, but it has really hit audiences, especially in Teesside,' he said. 'The queer community has told us, "This is the kind of comedy we want."' However, the appeal extends further. Dunning noted that 'a lot of straight, proper burly, straight men' have become fans. Many have admitted, 'Actually, I didn't expect to like it.' The show's dark slapstick humor, rather than its queer themes, drives the comedy, making it accessible to all.
Global Reach and Adaptations
Smoggie Queens has made waves in Australia and is being adapted into Spanish. Dunning acknowledged that some local references, or 'Boroughisms,' will need adjustment for international audiences.
Friendship at the Core
While Dickie dominates the narrative, the show is fundamentally about friendship. Dickie's circle includes Lucinda (Alexandra Mardell), Sal (Patsy Lowe), Stewart (Cameron Norrie), and Mam (Mark Benton), the 'matriarchal heart and home of Smoggie Queens.' Benton, who plays a drag queen, transforms completely in costume. 'As soon as he has the nails on, his posture changes,' Norris said.
Star-Studded Cast
Season two welcomes returning guest stars Michelle Visage and Steph McGovern, along with BAFTA-winning actress Monica Dolan, who personally requested a role. Executive producer Chris Jones revealed that Dolan texted Benton to express her love for the show. Dunning praised her dedication: 'She really threw herself into the part. It was fascinating to watch.' Mardell added that Dolan even tried a local dish, a parmo, to immerse herself in Smoggie culture.
Heartfelt Storylines
Despite its absurdity, Smoggie Queens delivers emotional depth. In season one, Mam revealed she had a son she hadn't seen since he was a child, forced to give up her identity as a drag queen to avoid losing custody. Dolan plays the mother whose prejudice caused the estrangement. Jones explained, 'We don't want to paint anyone as the villain in this chosen-family comedy.' In another storyline, Stewart moves in with Mam after being rejected by his nan for coming out. Norris noted, 'People say we've had too many coming-out stories, but they are always needed. It's lovely how much people relate to the show despite it being so out there.'
Character Connections
Each character resonates with different viewers. 'A lot of camp girls relate to Lucinda,' Mardell said, while Lowe laughed about Sal's strange behavior: 'People just enjoy how strange she is, even if she's just doing something weird in the back.' Lowe promised more fart jokes in season two.
Middlesbrough's Heart
No matter how successful Smoggie Queens becomes, its heart remains in Middlesbrough. Norris said, 'Queens on the scene here have said how much the show has changed their lives. There's now a spotlight on drag in the North East, specifically Teesside.' The second season premieres on BBC Three on May 15.
