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Teesside Talent Shines in Smoggie Queens Return
5 May
Summary
- Actor Mark Benton praises Teesside's creative resurgence.
- Most cast and crew hail from the North East region.
- New season features football legends Chris Kamara and Jeff Stelling.
The second series of the award-winning comedy Smoggie Queens is currently filming in Middlesbrough, with actor Mark Benton emphasizing the "amazing creative talent" of the Teesside region. Benton, a star of numerous films and television dramas, expressed his delight at filming in his hometown.
He noted the significant increase in local creative opportunities, stating that years ago, actors had to leave the area for television work. Now, the majority of actors and filming crew for Smoggie Queens are from the North East, a testament to the region's evolving creative landscape.
The series is written by Phil Dunning, a Middlesbrough native and BAFTA nominee, who promised the new season is "bigger, bolder and even madder." Dunning highlighted the importance of employing local talent, ensuring the North East community benefits from the production.
New additions to the cast include BAFTA winner Monica Dolan and football legends Chris Kamara and Jeff Stelling. Dunning expressed his amazement at attracting such high-profile names, especially for a football-themed episode, recognizing them as "Boro legends."
Smoggie Queens, series two, is scheduled to be available on BBC iPlayer and BBC Three starting May 14, 2026.
