New Peaky Blinders sequel series

The "Peaky Blinders" are returning! According to Variety, Netflix and the BBC have officially ordered a sequel to the cult series. This is to comprise two seasons and an episode length of 60 minutes.

The plot of the new series is set after the Second World War. Birmingham lies in ruins, but from the destruction emerges a city full of new possibilities. Reconstruction turns into a scene of brutal power struggles in which politics, business and crime are inextricably linked. The Shelbys – now with a new generation at the center – are once again at the heart of the intrigue.

Although the cast is still being kept under wraps, creator Steven Knight is once again on board as writer. Filming will take place at the original locations in Birmingham, Digbeth Loc. Studios to be precise. Cillian Murphy is also returning, but only in the role of executive producer.

A feature film is also planned alongside the series. "The Immortal Man" is due to be released in early 2026 and will presumably tie in with the previous events. Unlike in the new series, Murphy will once again be seen in his signature role as Tommy Shelby. He will be joined by Stephen Graham, Rebecca Ferguson, Tim Roth and Barry Keoghan. The screenplay was also written by Steven Knight, while Tom Harper – known for "Heart of Stone" among others – will direct.

Why Peaky Blinders is so popular: the secret to the success of a cult series

Since its premiere in 2013, the British series "Peaky Blinders" has developed from an insider tip from the BBC to an international phenomenon. Millions of fans worldwide follow the story of the Shelby family, who work their way up from petty criminals to feared power players in 1920s Birmingham. But what makes this series so appealing? Why has it managed to build up such a passionate fan base over six seasons – and why is the enthusiasm even growing with the planned film and the announced sequels?

Historical background with a modern twist

One of the greatest strengths of "Peaky Blinders" is its setting. The series is set in post-war England, at a time when social upheaval, poverty and violence dominated everyday life. Steven Knight, the creator of the series, based it on actual gangs that were active in Birmingham in the 1920s. Although the series takes many artistic liberties, the historical basis lends the stories an authenticity that captivates viewers.

At the same time, the historical setting is broken up by modern stylistic devices: music by bands such as Arctic Monkeys or Nick Cave, dynamic camera movements and contemporary staging. This break makes "Peaky Blinders" fresh and unmistakable.

The fascination of the Shelby family

At the center is the Shelby family – a clan that appears brutal and unscrupulous at first glance, but on closer inspection is held together by loyalty, trauma and ambition.

Above all, Tommy Shelby, played by Cillian Murphy, is the character that has captivated audiences since the first episode. His mixture of intelligence, charisma, inner demons and ice-cold strategy makes him one of the most complex characters in the series in recent years. But the supporting characters such as Arthur Shelby, the matriarch Polly Gray played by Helen McCrory and younger members of the family also help to immerse fans in this universe. The Shelby dynamic is much more than a typical gangster story: it's about family, loyalty, betrayal and the constant struggle between power and humanity.

An unmistakable style

When talking about the popularity of "Peaky Blinders", there's no getting around the visual style. From the iconic slouch hats and perfectly staged period costumes to the richly detailed sets, the series not only looks like a historical epic, it feels like one too.

The combination of contemporary fashion and modern staging tricks is particularly impressive. The slow-motion scenes in which the Shelbys stride through the streets of Birmingham, accompanied by booming rock music, have long since become cult. This unmistakable look has made the series a trademark – and even inspired fashion trends.

The role of music

Another secret of success is the music. Instead of setting the series to the typical sounds of the 1920s, the makers opted for a soundtrack of modern rock and indie songs. Artists such as Nick Cave, PJ Harvey, Arctic Monkeys and The White Stripes lend the scenes a raw energy that perfectly matches the atmosphere. Nick Cave's theme song Red Right Hand in particular is now inextricably linked with "Peaky Blinders" and has contributed significantly to its cult status.

Violence, power and morality

"Peaky Blinders" is not just a gangster series. It also raises questions about power, morality and identity. The Shelbys constantly move between legal business, political intrigue and brute force. Viewers witness Tommy Shelby trying to protect his family and build an empire at the same time – always aware that every step creates new enemies.

The violence in the series is brutal, but never an end in itself. It serves to emphasize the harshness of the times and the consequences of the characters' decisions.

The actors' performances

Another factor in its popularity is the top-class cast. Cillian Murphy carries the series with his intense portrayal of Tommy Shelby, but actors such as Paul Anderson (Arthur Shelby), Helen McCrory (Polly Gray) and Sophie Rundle (Ada Shelby) are also indispensable. In addition, the series has repeatedly attracted prominent guest stars, including Tom Hardy, Adrien Brody and Anya Taylor-Joy. This mixture of established actors and fresh faces ensures that "Peaky Blinders" has remained exciting and varied over the years.

A series with global appeal

Thanks to Netflix, "Peaky Blinders" became known far beyond the UK. The series struck a nerve worldwide because it addresses universal themes: family, power, rise and fall. At the same time, it conveys a piece of British history without ever seeming dry or old-fashioned.

Conclusion: More than just a gangster series

"Peaky Blinders" is popular because it is many things at once: a gripping gangster drama, a family story, a visual masterpiece and a piece of modern pop culture. It combines historical authenticity with modern staging, offers strong characters and an atmosphere that you won't find in any other series. The mixture of style, substance and emotion makes the series a global success – and ensures that enthusiasm for the Shelbys has not waned even after the end of the original series. With new projects on the horizon, one thing remains clear: the legend of the "Peaky Blinders" lives on.