Peaky Blinders Movie: Finn Cole’s Exit and the Road Ahead

Finn Cole’s Departure: A Bittersweet Farewell

Finn Cole, the actor who brought Michael Gray to life, has revealed that he will not be reprising his role in the upcoming Peaky Blinders movie. Despite his absence, Cole expressed his excitement for the project and pride in the show’s legacy. “I’m so excited to watch it. I’m so proud of that show and all the people involved,” he shared during an interview at the NYC premiere of his film Last Breath. Cole’s character, Michael Gray, had a turbulent journey in the series, evolving from a seemingly innocent figure to a vengeful adversary of Tommy Shelby. His eventual death at Tommy’s hands in the series finale seemed to seal his fate, making his exclusion from the movie somewhat expected. However, Cole admitted he was “absolutely gutted” to have missed the chance to visit the film’s set during production.

A Look Back at Michael Gray’s Journey

Michael Gray first appeared in Peaky Blinders during its second season in 2014, portrayed by Finn Cole. As the son of Polly Gray (played by the late Helen McCrory), Michael initially seemed out of place in the Shelby family’s criminal empire. However, his character took a darker turn as the series progressed, particularly after Polly’s tragic death at the hands of the IRA. Vowing revenge against Tommy, Michael became a significant antagonist, clashing repeatedly with the show’s protagonist. Their tense rivalry culminated in a fatal confrontation in the series finale, which aired in April 2022. Tommy’s decision to kill Michael marked the end of his journey, leaving fans to wonder if there was any possibility of his return. Cole’s confirmation of his absence from the movie laid those speculations to rest.

The Peaky Blinders Movie: A New Chapter

Netflix announced in June 2024 that Peaky Blinders would continue in the form of a feature film, with Cillian Murphy set to reprise his iconic role as Tommy Shelby. The movie is being helmed by director Tom Harper and creator Steven Knight, who has teased that the story will be set during World War II. While plot details remain under wraps, Knight has assured fans that the film will serve as “a very fitting way to end this part of the Peaky story.” The movie will also see the return of original cast member Sophie Rundle as Ada Shelby, along with new additions including Rebecca Ferguson, Tim Roth, and Barry Keoghan. Production began in September 2024, with Netflix sharing glimpses of the set to build anticipation.

The Legacy of Peaky Blinders and Its Dedicated Fanbase

Peaky Blinders has long been a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its gritty storytelling, complex characters, and richly atmospheric portrayal of post-World War I Birmingham. The show’s success has been driven in part by its dedicated fanbase, who have been eagerly awaiting the movie since the series finale. Creator Steven Knight has acknowledged the fans’ devotion, stating, “It is very gratifying to be collaborating with Steven Knight and Tom Harper on the film version of Peaky Blinders. This is one for the fans.” The decision to continue the story in a film format reflects a commitment to honoring the show’s legacy while exploring new creative horizons.

Finn Cole Reflects on His Time with Peaky Blinders

In reflecting on his time with Peaky Blinders, Finn Cole expressed a mix of gratitude and nostalgia. While he was unable to be involved in the movie, he remains deeply connected to the show and its cast. “They’re absolutely awesome, and I can’t wait for the movie. It’s going to be amazing,” he said. Cole’s relationship with the series is evident in his admiration for the crew and his appreciation for the opportunity to play Michael Gray. His absence from the movie is a reminder of the sacrifices that come with the evolution of a story, but his contributions to the Peaky Blinders universe remain indelible.

What’s Next for the Peaky Blinders Universe?

As fans eagerly await the release of the Peaky Blinders movie, Steven Knight has hinted that the world of the Shelbys may extend beyond the film. “It’s not over, let’s just put it like that,” he teased. While details about future projects are scarce, Knight’s remarks suggest that the Peaky Blinders saga may continue in some form, keeping the door open for new stories and characters. For now, the movie represents a bittersweet milestone—one that closes a chapter on the Shelby family’s journey while leaving room for further exploration of the Peaky Blinders universe. As production continues, fans can only speculate on what lies ahead for Tommy Shelby and the rest of the gang.