Cillian Murphy bestows his admiration upon Barry Keoghan, his co-star in 'Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man,' describing Keoghan as an actor who imbues the screen with a unique and captivating energy. In a recent interview, Murphy shared his thoughts, stating that Keoghan, who portrays Duke Shelby, Tommy's illegitimate son and eventual successor, possesses a "dangerous quality" that is instantly intriguing on camera.
"There's something about him that makes him instantly interesting when a camera is on him," Murphy explained to The Independent. "He embodies a combination of vulnerability and intensity, which are seemingly contradictory traits but he effortlessly weaves them into his performance."
Murphy believes that Keoghan's nuanced portrayal imbues Duke's character with authenticity and depth, allowing audiences to empathize with the character's complex journey.
Transitioning from the discussion of performances, Murphy also touched upon the broader landscape of the acting industry and the need for accessible opportunities for emerging talent. He emphasized that success in the industry should not be restricted to those from privileged backgrounds, underscoring the importance of community programs in nurturing young actors.
"It should never be the case that this industry is exclusively for privileged kids," he stated during the interview. "If youth drama, youth clubs, and libraries are shut down, where will these kids go? It's crucial that there's a pathway for them to believe that this is not an insurmountable challenge."
'Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man' premiered at Symphony Hall in Birmingham on March 2-3, 2026, and was released in select cinemas on March 6, 2026. The film will be available on Netflix starting March 20, 2026.
