Russell T Davies tackles gaygeism in new TV project

Russell T Davies, who has brought us such hits as Queer as Folk, the new Doctor Who, and Torchwood, is developing a new series for the BBC that deals with gay men in their forties. The show will be called Old as Folk.

Okay, not really. The show is as yet unnamed and it's not been decided how it will be produced or on which BBC channel it will appear. All that's clear now is that Davies wants to focus on the age rift in gay men and the tendency gay men have to revel in the romantic misfortune of others. He noted in a recent interview with The Guardian that the inspiration came from a former Mr. Gay UK, who found that when he broke up with his boyfriend it was a cause celebre for other fellas:

"He asked me: 'Why are so many gay men so glad we split up?' That remark's stayed with me for six years. I think there's a self-punishing streak in that gladness and I want to explore it."

Can't say he's not on to something, but will a show about forty-something gay men play? Let's say I'm not holding my breath for an American remake, unless they pack in the sexy teens and relegate the older guys to the kitchen with a cheesecake.