Cillian Murphy Calls Tom Hardy ‘One of the Best’—But There’s More Behind This Praise!

In an interview with GQ in July 2023, Cillian Murphy shared high praise for his longtime collaborator, Tom Hardy, calling him “one of the best actors in the business.” This statement was made as part of the promotional campaign for Murphy’s starring role in Oppenheimer, Christopher Nolan’s biographical thriller. Murphy’s words highlighted not only his admiration for Hardy’s acting talent but also the deep trust and on-screen chemistry the two actors have developed over the years, particularly through their collaborations on several high-profile projects.

A Dynamic Partnership on Screen

Murphy’s praise for Hardy is grounded in their extensive professional relationship, which spans a range of successful films and television projects. Their first significant collaboration occurred in 2012 with The Dark Knight Rises, the final installment of Nolan’s Batman trilogy. Hardy’s portrayal of the imposing villain Bane was met with widespread critical acclaim, and Murphy, as the enigmatic Dr. Crane/Scarecrow, found himself alongside Hardy in a villainous showdown.

Their partnership continued with Dunkirk (2017), another Nolan film, where Hardy portrayed a Spitfire pilot. Although their characters did not share direct screen time, both actors contributed to the film’s tense, immersive atmosphere. However, it was their work on Peaky Blinders (2013–2022) that allowed their professional chemistry to truly shine. Hardy joined the BBC series in Season 2 as Alfie Solomons, a Jewish gang leader whose unpredictable and complex character struck a memorable contrast with Murphy’s Tommy Shelby. The dynamic between their characters, marked by both rivalry and reluctant collaboration, became a fan-favorite aspect of the show. It was here that Murphy’s comment about their “great trust” and “shorthand” likely stemmed from, as their on-screen confrontations were filled with palpable tension and intellectual sparring.

Mutual Admiration and Future Prospects

In addition to praising Hardy’s acting ability, Murphy also expressed a desire to collaborate again, suggesting that a Peaky Blinders film might be a future opportunity for the two to reunite. This idea, which initially seemed like a hopeful wish, has since become a reality. In 2024, it was announced that a Peaky Blinders film was in development, with production slated to begin in September 2024. Murphy is set to reprise his role as Tommy Shelby, and Hardy confirmed his return as Alfie Solomons in an interview in June 2024, further fueling excitement for their reunion. The film, produced by Netflix, promises to be an explosive new chapter following the events of Season 6, with an impressive cast that includes Rebecca Ferguson, Barry Keoghan, and Tim Roth, as reported by NME.

This film marks a significant continuation of the creative partnership between Murphy and Hardy, reinforcing the notion that their on-screen chemistry is not only a product of their past collaborations but also a driving force in the Peaky Blinders franchise’s ongoing evolution. The film’s production has solidified the bond between the two actors, proving that Murphy’s earlier remarks were not only a professional compliment but also a subtle foreshadowing of their continued collaboration.

A Look Ahead

As the Peaky Blinders film moves closer to production, the excitement surrounding Murphy and Hardy’s reunion is palpable. Their longstanding partnership has resulted in some of the most compelling performances in recent years, and their return to the screen together promises to deliver another dynamic chapter for fans. In the meantime, Murphy’s admiration for Hardy serves as a testament to the deep respect and camaraderie between two of the most talented actors of their generation. Whether in films like The Dark Knight Rises or Dunkirk, or in the gritty world of Peaky Blinders, their chemistry continues to resonate, leaving fans eager for their next collaboration.