Earlier this week the Independent Television Commission, which regulates commercial television, reported Queer As Folk had attracted a record 160 complaints.

BBC: john simm

Performers like Gina G, Charlotte Church and Noel Sullivan all took part, along with Doctor Who and Queer as Folk writer Russell T Davies.

BBC: Stars join Cardiff gay Mardi Gras

Nickleby is played by fellow British actor, Charlie Hunnam, who is best known for his role as a gay schoolboy in controversial Channel 4 drama Queer As Folk.

BBC: Stars gather at Nickleby premi��re

Also, this past year has witnessed the much publicised arrival of a US version of the British TV series Queer as Folk on a major pay TV cable network.

BBC: America's gay TV revolution