Cillian Murphy has opened up about stepping back into the world of Peaky Blinders, four years after the hit series wrapped — and he’s made it clear that the story may not be over.

Speaking to Entertainment Tonight in Birmingham, the real-life home of the historical Peaky Blinders gang, Murphy reflected on what it feels like to once again wear Tommy Shelby’s signature suit and cap.

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When asked how it felt returning to the role, he said: “It always feel fresh but it always feels familiar. Because I've been playing it for so long. It always represents a challenge. Because the writing is so good.”

It’s a fitting description for a character Murphy has embodied since 2013. Created by Steven Knight, the BBC crime drama followed the rise of the Shelby crime family in post–World War I Birmingham. Over six series, it evolved from a gritty period gangster show into a global cultural phenomenon.

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What began as a BBC Two drama gradually became one of Britain’s most internationally successful exports, particularly after it landed on Netflix. The show built a massive global audience, with fans across Europe, North America and beyond embracing its stylised violence, razor-sharp dialogue and cinematic production values. By its later seasons, it was drawing millions of viewers per episode in the UK alone and trending globally with every new release.

Financially, the franchise has been hugely lucrative. While exact production profits are not publicly broken down, its global Netflix licensing, merchandise, fashion collaborations and immersive experiences have turned it into a multi-million-pound brand. The show has inspired everything from official clothing lines to themed bars and live events. In Birmingham, Peaky Blinders tourism has reportedly generated significant economic impact, with fans travelling specifically to visit filming locations and related attractions.

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Murphy’s portrayal of Tommy Shelby — the calculating, traumatised gang leader turned political power player — has been central to that success. The Cork-born actor was already respected for roles in 28 Days Later, Inception and his long-running collaboration with director Christopher Nolan, but Peaky Blinders elevated him to a different tier of international stardom.

That ascent reached new heights in 2023 when he won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his lead role in Oppenheimer, cementing him as one of Ireland’s most accomplished screen exports. Yet despite that Hollywood success, Tommy Shelby remains one of his most defining roles.

When asked whether this latest return signals a final farewell or a new beginning, Murphy was characteristically measured.

“I think the universe of it will continue, I imagine. If the fans or if there's more story to tell, then yeah sure. But it's not reallu up to me.”

That comment aligns with creator Steven Knight’s long-stated ambition to expand the Peaky Blinders universe. A feature-length film continuation has already been confirmed, with production under way and Murphy reprising his role. Knight has also hinted at potential spin-offs set in the same world.

The show’s ensemble cast has been another major factor in its appeal. Alongside Murphy, the series featured the late Helen McCrory as the formidable Polly Gray, a performance widely regarded as one of the show’s emotional anchors. It also starred Tom Hardy as volatile gang leader Alfie Solomons, Paul Anderson as Arthur Shelby, Sophie Rundle as Ada Shelby, and Anya Taylor-Joy as Gina Gray, among others. High-profile guest appearances over the years further boosted its prestige status.

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Critically acclaimed and the recipient of multiple BAFTA wins, the series became known for its bold soundtrack choices — blending Nick Cave, Arctic Monkeys and other modern artists with 1920s visuals — as well as its sharp tailoring and instantly recognisable aesthetic. The flat cap and long overcoat became global fashion statements.

For Irish viewers, the full six seasons of Peaky Blinders are currently available to stream on Netflix, where it continues to attract new audiences years after its finale aired in 2022.

Murphy’s latest comments suggest that while he may not control the franchise’s future, he recognises its enduring pull. The combination of a fiercely loyal fanbase, a proven global audience and an expansive fictional universe means Peaky Blinders is far from fading quietly into television history.

If anything, Murphy’s return to that “suit and cap” signals that the Shelby legacy — much like Tommy himself — is difficult to bury.