Peaky Blinders Film Nearly Featured Major Ghost Twist for Fan-Favourite Character
Steven Knight, the creator of the acclaimed series Peaky Blinders, has shared a surprising revelation about the new Netflix film The Immortal Man. He disclosed that he almost included a significant plot twist involving Tom Hardy's beloved character, Alfie Solomons, which would have dramatically altered the character's fate.
Abandoned Cameo Would Have Revealed Alfie as a Ghost
In an interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Knight confided that he initially contemplated the idea of Alfie making an appearance in the film. However, this would not have been a typical return. Instead, Knight considered revealing that Alfie Solomons was actually a ghost, a spectre that Tommy Shelby had been communicating with all along.
"I had an idea, which I haven't really spoken about," Knight stated. "Ever since he was shot on the beach at Margate [in season four], you've only ever seen Tommy and Alfie together alone. I thought, maybe [Alfie] appears, and we realise he's been dead all that time. Now, I nearly did that, and I didn't do it, but that was a thought."
Alfie Solomons' Complicated History with the Shelby Family
Tom Hardy portrayed Alfie Solomons, the Jewish cockney crime boss of Camden, from the second series of Peaky Blinders onwards. The character had a complex and often tense relationship with the Birmingham gangsters, particularly Tommy Shelby, played by Cillian Murphy.
After being shot in the head by Tommy on Margate beach, Alfie made fleeting appearances in the fifth and sixth series of the BBC programme. It was later disclosed that he had survived the gunshot wound, a decision influenced by Hardy persuading Knight to bring him back.
Why the Twist Was Ultimately Scrapped
Several factors likely contributed to Knight's decision not to include the ghost twist in The Immortal Man. Tom Hardy's busy schedule may have played a part, as the actor has been filming the Paramount+ crime drama MobLand since the conclusion of Peaky Blinders.
The film itself focuses on Tommy returning to Small Heath to confront his estranged son, Erasmus 'Duke' Shelby, portrayed by Barry Keoghan, who has assumed control of the gang. Some fans might have been disappointed that Hardy did not feature in the Netflix movie, but Knight's revelation offers insight into the creative process behind the scenes.
Future Possibilities for Alfie Solomons and the Peaky Blinders Universe
Despite his absence in The Immortal Man, there is still a possibility, albeit slim, that fans could see Alfie return. Knight confirmed that the series will be returning for at least two more series on Netflix and the BBC, set in post-World War II Birmingham.
He also hinted that some characters from the film will appear in the upcoming sequel, though he is under strict instructions not to divulge details. "Some of the characters that are in [The Immortal Man] will appear in that. But I'm under strict instructions not to talk about it except to say that it's happening," Knight added.
Duke Shelby is confirmed to appear in the sequel, but it is currently unknown if Barry Keoghan will reprise the role. Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man is now available to stream on Netflix, offering viewers a new chapter in the Shelby family saga while leaving room for future surprises.
