Cillian Murphy: The uncontested king of Peaky Blinders - Joe Cole spills all!

Peaky Blinders, the BBC's captivating drama, soared to heights with Cillian Murphy at its helm. Today, as we nostalgically look back, we remember Joe Cole's candid revelation about his departure from the show. Cole, who graced our screens as the younger Shelby brother, John, openly admitted the show was Cillian Murphy's show and he felt constrained in his role.

"I Never Really Got Out of the Gates"

Cole's character in Peaky Blinders, set in post-First World War Birmingham, never quite saw the limelight like Tommy Shelby, portrayed by the then 45-year-old Murphy. As Cole puts it, "With Peaky Blinders, I never really got out of the gates in that role. It’s Cillian’s show really." This honest reflection offers insight into the dynamics of the show, which concluded its sixth and final series in 2022.

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The turning point for Cole came with his role in Gangs of London on Sky Atlantic. Initially skeptical, Cole realized the potential of the new project. He said, "I actually chose to leave Peaky Blinders because I wanted to explore new avenues, and new characters and new stories." His enthusiasm for the role of Sean, seeking justice for his father's death, marked a significant shift in his career.

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Reflecting on the legacy of Peaky Blinders, we cannot overlook the monumental impact of Cillian Murphy. As the face of the Shelby family, Murphy's portrayal of Tommy Shelby has become iconic. His deep, nuanced performance not only defined the series but also set a benchmark for television dramas in the UK.

Despite his departure, Joe Cole speaks highly of his experiences and the impact of the show. He recognizes the significance of shows like The Wire, Boardwalk Empire, and The Sopranos, acknowledging their influence on his career. In Gangs of London, Cole finds a platform to showcase his range, saying, "This show is really an opportunity to show what I can do and for the rest of the cast, what they can do."

Today, as we reminisce about the journey of "Peaky Blinders," we see the paths diverged for its stars. Cillian Murphy continues to captivate audiences, while Joe Cole charts new territories in Gangs of London. Their contributions to the series remain a significant chapter in television history, a testament to their talent and the show's enduring appeal.

In conclusion, while Peaky Blinders was undoubtedly Cillian Murphy's realm, it served as a pivotal stepping stone for Joe Cole. His candid reflections and the subsequent shift in his career trajectory highlight the ever-evolving landscape of television drama. As the second series of "Gangs of London" airs, we eagerly anticipate what Joe Cole brings to the table, carrying with him the legacy of his time in Birmingham's underworld.

(Several parts of the text in this article, including the title, were generated with the help of an AI tool.)