“The deal wasn’t great, and my brother was still in school,” he explained. “It just didn’t feel right.”
Looking back, the actor has been pragmatic about the decision, insisting he has no regrets. “I don’t think I was good enough to do it professionally,” he said. “I wanted to focus on one thing and try to do it well. I’m happy with my lot.”
Recent interviews between 2024 and 2026 have revisited Murphy’s musical past, including resurfaced footage of him at 19 discussing his passion for musicianship over commercial success. In those clips, he emphasised the importance of authenticity and the joy of performing live.
Although he chose acting as his career, Murphy revealed he has never fully left music behind. “I still mess around with music,” he said. “I play with my brother sometimes — it’s just fun.”
Murphy’s musical roots have also influenced his more recent projects. Speaking on Track Star, he praised Fontaines D.C. and revealed himself to be a fan of their work.
“I love what they do,” he said. “They’ve got such a distinct voice.”
The band’s frontman, Grian Chatten, contributes extensively to the soundtrack of The Immortal Man, the forthcoming Peaky Blinders film continuation in which Murphy reprises his iconic role.
“Grian’s voice really fits the tone of the film,” Murphy noted. “It brings something special.”
Murphy’s reflections highlight a lesser-known chapter of his creative life — one that nearly led him down a very different path — while underscoring his continued connection to music alongside his acclaimed acting career.
