Peaky Blinders returns with new cast in post-war Birmingham era

Peaky Blinders returns with new cast, post-war setting, and Shelby family drama in Birmingham’s crime world

The BBC has confirmed new cast members for the upcoming series of Peaky Blinders, as the acclaimed crime drama returns with a fresh storyline set in post-war Birmingham.

Created by Stephen Knight, the new chapter of Peaky Blinders will take place a decade after World War Two, introducing a new era for the Shelby family as they attempt to rebuild their influence in a changing city. The series will follow Duke Shelby (Jamie Bell) and Charles Shelby (Charlie Heaton) as they navigate rising threats while competing to shape Birmingham’s future.

Among the new additions is Conleth Hill, who will play Clemmy Keeler, the powerful leader of a rival gangster family. His character is expected to become a major antagonist as tensions rise between competing criminal factions in the city.

Speaking about the new instalment, Knight said he was excited to move the story into post-war Birmingham in the early 1950s and introduce a new generation of characters. He also highlighted Jamie Bell and Charlie Heaton as key leads in the evolving saga.

Previously announced cast members include Jessica Brown Findlay, Lashana Lynch and Lucy Karczewski, though their roles remain undisclosed. Cal O’Driscoll joins as Aidan Keeler, while Daniel Monks will portray Detective Inspector Bell.

Returning cast members Ned Dennehy and Packy Lee will reprise their roles from earlier seasons and Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man.

Filming is currently underway at Digbeth Loc. Studios in Birmingham, marking a significant production milestone supported by a new BBC partnership investment in the West Midlands. The series will consist of six one-hour episodes and will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the UK, with global distribution on Netflix.