Why Joe Cole chose to leave the shadow of Cillian Murphy in "Peaky Blinders".

The nostalgia of television past can often bring up unexpected insights. It's been over a year since Joe Cole's heartfelt revelation about his departure from the iconic BBC show, "Peaky Blinders", made headlines. The series, known for its gripping narrative about the notorious Shelby family, ended its spellbinding run with its sixth season last February. The world watched as Cillian Murphy, who celebrated his 45th birthday this year, captivated audiences with his portrayal of the lead character, Tommy Shelby.

Cole's candid confession: "It's Cillian Murphy's show"

For many, "Peaky Blinders" has become synonymous with Cillian Murphy's face, shadowing other key characters in the series. Joe Cole once admitted, "With Peaky Blinders I never really got out of the gates in that role. It’s Cillian’s show really." This sentiment resonates now more than ever, as fans look back and appreciate the layered performances of the show's cast.

Stepping into new avenues

Joe, having left the Shelby world behind, showcased his versatility by plunging into another gang-related series, "Gang of London" on Sky Atlantic. Initially hesitant about joining, Joe found himself captivated by the storyline and its potential. In his words, "This show is more ensemble, it follows characters on a deep level." His character, Sean, embarks on a relentless journey to find the culprits behind his father's death, adding a fresh depth to his acting portfolio.

Delving deeper into his decision, Joe recalled how post "Peaky Blinders", he was swamped with offers for gang-centric roles. Wanting to embrace new narratives and characters, he decided to step away from the shadows of the Shelbys. His journey wasn't without its inspirations. Shows like "The Wire", "Boardwalk Empire", and "The Sopranos" played influential roles in shaping his love for the genre. And as Joe aptly put it, while these shows set the gold standard for television, "Peaky Blinders" brought that flair to the UK audience.

Looking back, it's intriguing to see the choices actors make, venturing into newer domains, leaving behind characters that once defined them. While Cillian Murphy continues to remain an epitome of excellence, Joe Cole's journey post "Peaky Blinders" further cements his versatility in the entertainment world.

The ever-evolving realm of TV

The landscape of television is constantly evolving, and actors like Joe Cole remind us of the rich tapestry of talent out there, waiting to showcase their skills, beyond their most recognized roles. As we wait with bated breath for the second series of "Gangs of London" next spring, it's worth reminiscing about the golden era of "Peaky Blinders" and the immense talent it brought to our screens.

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