Shakeel Kimotho, a name that has been synonymous with the theatre scene for years, is now making a significant impact on television. Known for her stellar performances in productions like La Cage Aux FollesCATS and Animal Farm Shakeel has recently burst onto our screens in a role that promises to redefine her career. In Russell T Davies’ new Channel 4 drama, Tip Toe Shakeel portrays Hanna, a charismatic bartender at the heart of the story, navigating the complexities of gender identity.
The series, set in Manchester, follows the escalating feud between neighbours Leo (Alan Cumming) and Clive (David Morrissey), which spirals into a harrowing situation with fatal consequences. Hanna, played by Shakeel, is a central character whose journey of self-discovery and gender exploration adds depth and authenticity to the narrative.
Hanna: A Character of Becoming
Shakeel describes Hanna as “a great example of someone who is becoming. Someone who is in transition and isn’t fully formed.” This portrayal is not just a role for Shakeel; it’s a responsibility she takes to heart. “I really just went back to my friends who are queer as well to talk about what sapphic transness looks like in this context,” she shares. Hanna’s journey resonates deeply with many in the queer community, showcasing the importance of representation and the nuances of gender identity.
The Power of Queer Friendship
One of the standout elements of Tip Toe is its portrayal of queer friendship. The first episode highlights the unwavering support among the employees of Spit and Polish, the Canal Street gay bar, as they help Zee (Iz Hesketh) confront an abusive home environment. For Shakeel, this theme hits close to home. “Queer friendship reigns more than anything else,” she says. “Queer friendship is how I’m able to be here doing what I’m doing, aside from being an artist, just as a human being. But especially as an artist.”
Shakeel’s own experiences with queer creatives, particularly Black queer creatives, have been instrumental in her journey. She emphasizes the importance of these relationships, stating, “My fellow queer creatives, Black queer creatives especially, have been able to fill my cup up in ways that I am just completely indebted to.”
A Full-Circle Moment
Shakeel’s journey to television is a full-circle moment, inspired by Russell T Davies’ groundbreaking series Queer As Folk. “There’s a place in my heart that Queer As Folk sits in,” she confides. “I think everyone has their thing; some girls have their Britney Spears videos, some boys have Justin Timberlake, Queer As Folk was that for me.”
Despite being new to the television industry, Shakeel is already making waves and advocating for more representation. She encourages emerging trans performers to “understand the notion of becoming. The world itself is getting into its own shoes too.” Shakeel also highlights the importance of resources like Trans on Screen and Allen and Payne Casting’s GAP Workshops urging aspiring actors to lean into these opportunities.
A Call to Arms
Tip Toe is more than just a television show; it’s a call to arms in the current political climate. Shakeel points out that the series underscores the role of the digital space in instigating hatred and the need to combat the echo chamber culture that exists online. She urges viewers not to internalize the show but to engage in the nuanced conversations it provokes.
Looking ahead, Shakeel plans to “definitely be at a few Pride events” this summer. She invites the community to say “Hello!” because the biggest gift from this show is the connections and friendships it has fostered within the queer community.
Catch Shakeel in Channel 4’s Tip Toe streaming now. For those who love media made by and for LGBTQIA+ women and gender diverse people, DIVA has been a beacon for over 30 years. Support queer media and keep it going for another generation by visiting linkin.bio/ig-divamagazine.
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