Cillian Murphy Confirms Tommy Shelby’s Return – But Will Tom Hardy Be Back Too?

The Peaky Blinders series, which concluded its run on the BBC in 2022, left fans eager for more. Their wishes have been granted, as Netflix confirmed in June 2024 that a Peaky Blinders movie is in the works, with Cillian Murphy set to reprise his iconic role as Tommy Shelby. For those who have been following the Shelby family’s dramatic rise and fall, the announcement is nothing short of thrilling. Here’s everything we know so far about the upcoming Peaky Blinders film.

Cillian Murphy Confirms His Return as Tommy Shelby

Cillian Murphy’s portrayal of Tommy Shelby has been one of the most captivating performances in recent television history, and fans will be relieved to know that he’s returning for the movie. Murphy expressed his excitement about collaborating with series creator Steven Knight and director Tom Harper once again, sharing, “It seems like Tommy Shelby wasn’t finished with me … It is very gratifying to be collaborating with Steven Knight and Tom Harper on the film version of Peaky Blinders. This is one for the fans.”

Tom Hardy’s Return as Alfie Solomons?

While Murphy’s return is confirmed, other cast members’ involvement remains less certain. Tom Hardy, who portrays the beloved yet volatile Alfie Solomons, teased his return in an interview in April 2025. When asked if he would reprise his role, Hardy responded cryptically, “What are you talking about?” before adding, “Always. At any moment.” Fans are now left wondering whether Hardy will indeed be back to stir up more trouble with the Peaky Blinders gang.

New Cast Members Joining the Movie

In addition to Murphy, Sophie Rundle will return as Polly Gray, and several exciting new names are joining the cast. Rebecca Ferguson, Tim Roth, Stephen Graham, Ned Dennehy, Packy Lee, Ian Peck, Jay Lycurgo, and Barry Keoghan are all set to appear in the film, adding fresh energy to the already stellar ensemble. However, the status of Paul Anderson (Arthur Shelby) and Joe Cole (John Shelby) remains unclear, leaving some questions about the key figures’ presence in the movie.

What’s the Plot of the Movie?

While details about the movie’s plot are scarce, Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight has revealed that the film will be set during World War II, a departure from the series’ earlier time period, which was primarily set in the aftermath of World War I. Knight teased that the movie would be “the same but different,” promising fans that they should “expect the unexpected.” As for what specific storylines will be explored, viewers will have to wait and see how the Shelby family’s saga continues.

When Did Filming Begin?

Production for the Peaky Blinders movie officially began in September 2024 in the U.K. Filming wrapped just a few months later, in December 2024, and fans are already buzzing with anticipation. To celebrate the completion of the movie’s production, Netflix released a first look at Barry Keoghan’s new character alongside Murphy’s Tommy Shelby, both sporting their signature newsboy caps. The behind-the-scenes shot has only heightened excitement for what’s to come.

Is This the End of the Peaky Blinders Franchise?

Although the Peaky Blinders movie will undoubtedly feel like a major chapter coming to a close, creator Steven Knight hinted in February 2025 that the Peaky Blinders universe isn’t over just yet. Speaking to BBC Breakfast, Knight called the work on the movie “fantastic” and described it as “a very fitting way to end this part of the Peaky story.” However, he quickly added, “It’s not over, let’s just put it like that. I’m not allowed to announce it, but I’m just saying that the world of Peaky will continue.” This statement leaves open the possibility of future Peaky Blinders projects, whether in the form of spin-offs or further expansions of the story.

Conclusion

With a returning Cillian Murphy, a mix of familiar faces, and exciting new additions to the cast, the Peaky Blinders movie is shaping up to be a must-watch for fans of the iconic series. Though much about the plot remains a mystery, the promise of a World War II-era storyline and the continuation of the Shelby family’s complex saga will undoubtedly make the film an explosive event. As creator Steven Knight hinted, this may not be the last we see of the Peaky Blinders world, and if the movie lives up to expectations, it will undoubtedly be a fitting continuation of a franchise that has captivated audiences for years.