British actor and podcaster Russell Tovey, known for his roles in series like Looking and Years and Years, has released his debut novel, Starlings. The story is available exclusively as an audiobook on Audible and features a notable cast led by Irish actor Andrew Scott (All of Us Strangers, Fleabag).
The project is significant not only for its high-profile leads but also for its deliberate choice to be released first in an audio format, brought to life by a cast composed largely of queer performers from London.
Confronting a Hidden Past
Starlings centres on Donald (voiced by Scott), a man in his forties who has long concealed his past as a drag artist from his family. The death of his father prompts the return of his brother, Owen, forcing Donald to confront the family traumas and personal history he has tried to suppress. The narrative is set in Clapham, a district in South London known for its vibrant queer community, which serves as a backdrop for the story of reconciliation and identity.
An Authentic Ensemble
A key aspect of the production is its commitment to authentic representation. The ensemble cast includes established actors like Michele Austin and Julian Kostov, alongside drag performers from the London scene, such as Dosa Cat, Gigi Zahir, and That Girl. This casting choice aims to lend a genuine voice to the world Tovey has created.
In a statement, Tovey commented on the production process: "It was the greatest privilege to bring this story and these characters to life with the most talented team at Audible and this perfect cast."
A Shift in Storytelling
The decision to launch a debut novel from a prominent figure like Tovey as an audio-first production on a major platform like Audible reflects a growing trend in media. By prioritising an audio experience with a cast deeply connected to the story's themes, Starlings highlights the potential for new forms of narrative delivery. For listeners in the Netherlands and beyond, it offers a new work from two actors who have become well-regarded figures in telling queer stories on screen and, now, through audio.
