Steven Knight’s candid revelation on the casting choices in Peaky Blinders.

Cillian Murphy’s portrayal of Thomas Shelby in Peaky Blinders stands as one of the highlights of his career, showcasing a character capable of seamlessly transitioning from a sophisticated country gentleman to a ruthless urban thug at the flick of a razor-edged hat.

Peaky Blinders | Credit: BBC
Despite Murphy’s seemingly irreplaceable performance, he could have potentially lost the role to the Fast and Furious star Jason Statham. Knight has shared that Statham was also in talks to star in the historical drama and he even met him for the role.

Peaky Blinders Creator Met Jason Statham For the Role of Tommy Shelby

In a live watch-along by Esquire UK, Steven Knight discussed the casting process for the role of Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders. He revealed that while he initially considered Jason Statham, whom he had worked with on the 2013 film Hummingbird, he ultimately opted for Cillian Murphy.
Jason Statham | Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The filmmaker shared that he initially chose Jason Statham because of his commanding presence during their meeting, suggesting that he had the potential for a more intense portrayal of the character. However, he still decided to go ahead with the Oppenheimer star.

He changed his decision upon recognizing Murphy’s acting prowess, and his ability to fully embody his character on-screen, contrasting it with his off-screen persona. He shared,

“I was considering Cillian and Jason Statham. I met them both in in Los Angeles to talk about the role and opted for Jason—Jason was Jason and Cillian when you meet him isn’t Tommy, obviously, but I was stupid enough not to understand that.”

Cillian Murphy as Tommy Shelby | Credit: Netflix
He praised Murphy’s transformative talent, highlighting his dedication and skill in maintaining character throughout filming. Knight emphasized Murphy’s extraordinary ability to completely inhabit a role, highlighting his exceptional talent and dedication as an actor.

Steven Knight Recalled Cillian Murphy’s Text After their Meeting

Cillian Murphy has shared that he was not sure about landing the role in Peaky Blinders following his meeting with Steven Knight. To reassure the filmmaker of his abilities, Murphy sent a text stating, “Remember, I am an actor.” The Locke director recalled receiving the text from Murphy after his meeting.

“He came and we talked there’s a few of us—Shortly after he sent her a text saying, ‘Remember, I’m an actor,’” he shared. And Steven Knight shared that he genuinely believed in Murphy’s assertion as he can truly transform himself into his characters.
Peaky Blinders | Credit: IMDb
He noted that Murphy’s transformation goes beyond simply flicking a switch, as it requires immense dedication and talent. “What he can do is extraordinary, with himself with his whole presence,” he said before adding “[It’s] not like the flick of a button.”

The Oscar-winning actor portrayed the character throughout the six-season run of the series and has received immense love and praise for his performance. And he is now expected to reprise his role in the upcoming Peaky Blinders movie, which Knight suggested could start filming soon.

Peaky Blinders is available to stream on Netflix.