Cillian Murphy, the acclaimed actor who portrayed the iconic Tommy Shelby in the hit series Peaky Blinders, recently addressed his potential return to the role after the show's sixth and final season. With plans for a spin-off film and other projects in the works, fans have been eagerly awaiting news of Murphy's involvement. In a conversation with BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs, the actor shared his thoughts on the matter and left the door open for a potential comeback.
Reflecting on his time on Peaky Blinders, Murphy expressed his enthusiasm for returning to the character of Tommy Shelby if the circumstances were right. He stated, 'If there is more story to tell, and if Stephen Knight delivers a script like I know he can, then I will be there.' Despite his character's conclusion in the series finale and the passage of time, Murphy remains intrigued by the idea of exploring an older Tommy Shelby, saying, 'if we want to watch 50-year-old Tommy Shelby, I will be there. Let's do it.'
The sixth season of Peaky Blinders left Tommy Shelby's fate open-ended, as he faced numerous challenges and ultimately walked away from the Shelby family. After battling personal demons, illness, and loss, Tommy found solace and chose to retreat from the spotlight. This ending not only leaves room for his potential return but also provides a sense of closure for the character.
While Murphy's involvement would undoubtedly please fans, the future of Peaky Blinders does not solely rely on his participation. Netflix, the platform that aired the series, has expressed interest in two spin-offs that expand the show's universe. One potential sequel would delve into the gang's operations in the United States, while a prequel would explore the life of the enigmatic Polly Gray, portrayed by the late Helen McCrory. Although Murphy's presence would be a significant asset for the franchise, the show can continue to thrive without his character if he chooses to step aside.
Tommy Shelby's journey was at the heart of Peaky Blinders, setting the stage for the gang's rise and fall. As such, it is challenging to imagine the show's future without Murphy's involvement, especially in the planned film, which could serve as an epilogue to the main series. Nevertheless, with Murphy's continued interest and faith in Stephen Knight's work as the show's creator, there is a glimmer of hope that Tommy Shelby may still have a role to play in his family's future.
Peaky Blinders, a historical crime drama created and written by Steven Knight, captivated audiences across its six-season run. Set in post-World War I Great Britain, the show centered around the exploits of the legendary Peaky Blinders gang. Starring the talented ensemble cast led by Cillian Murphy, Sam Neill, and the late Helen McCrory, Peaky Blinders has become a renowned and beloved television series.
For those who are eager to relive the gripping stories and unforgettable characters, all six seasons of Peaky Blinders are available for streaming on Netflix.
As fans eagerly anticipate any developments regarding the future of Peaky Blinders, Cillian Murphy's willingness to return to the role of Tommy Shelby offers hope, while simultaneously leaving space for new stories in the show's expanding universe. As we await further news, we can look back on the incredible journey of Peaky Blinders and the indelible mark it has left on television history.
