The upcoming film adaptation of Peaky Blinders, titled The Immortal Man, will continue the story of Tommy Shelby with Barry Keoghan cast as Duke Shelby, Tommy’s illegitimate son. The movie, co-produced by Netflix and starring Cillian Murphy reprising his role as Tommy, is set to hit cinemas on March 6.
Barry Keoghan’s Role as Duke Shelby in the Peaky Blinders Universe
Duke Shelby, introduced in the sixth season of the TV series and originally played by Conrad Khan, is revealed as Tommy Shelby’s son. The character’s background unfolds after Tommy’s daughter dies, and during a meeting with his widowed sister-in-law Esme, Tommy is introduced to Duke. Duke is the offspring of Tommy and a Romani woman named Zelda, whom Tommy impregnated before being sent off to fight in World War I.
In the final episodes of the series, Duke steps into a powerful position within the Peaky Blinders gang, asserting dominance by expelling Finn Shelby from the group. Before Tommy’s departure, he quietly shares something with Duke—widely interpreted as a directive to lead the family business.
Insights into Duke Shelby’s Character in the Film Adaptation
The latest trailer presents Duke as the reigning leader of the Peaky Blinders, with Ada Shelby remarking that Duke runs the gang “like it’s 1919.” Barry Keoghan expressed enthusiasm about joining the franchise, describing the casting as ideal for both his career and the unfolding narrative.
“I always wanted to be part of it, and I feel like this was the perfect moment, in the sense of who I play and the story that unfolds. It couldn’t be any more perfect casting.”
– Barry Keoghan, Actor
Keoghan revealed that Cillian Murphy, who worked with him previously on Dunkirk, personally invited him to take the role. He recalled Murphy’s message and his immediate excitement to join the project.
“At the drop of a hat, I was like, feckin’ yeah, anything to work with yourself again, and to become part of that universe and that world.”
– Barry Keoghan, Actor
Describing Duke’s emotional state, Keoghan noted the character’s inner struggles and his longing for paternal connection.
“Being a father myself, I really did relate to Duke, because there’s this cry for his father and this cry for the figure that he needs to be there.”
– Barry Keoghan, Actor
What the Peaky Blinders Film Means for the Franchise’s Future
With the series finale released four years ago, The Immortal Man film serves both as a continuation and conclusion of the Peaky Blinders saga. It shifts focus to the next generation, with Duke Shelby at the helm of the gang, promising new challenges and dynamics. However, the absence of Arthur Shelby’s character, rumored due to Paul Anderson’s legal issues, leaves some storylines unresolved, adding complexity to the narrative’s progression.
The film’s release will be a key moment for fans eager to revisit the gritty world of the Peaky Blinders and witness how the legacy of Tommy Shelby endures through his son Duke, portrayed now by Barry Keoghan. How Duke’s leadership will reshape the gang and whether he can fill his father’s shoes remains a central question for audiences as the story continues to unfold on the big screen.
