Cillian Murphy discusses Tommy Shelby’s iconic haircut and its cultural rise.

Table of Contents
Lead Summary
Cillian Murphy confirms that the Tommy Shelby haircut has become an international phenomenon as the actor returns to the role in Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man.
The distinctive undercut, first seen in the 2013 television series, now serves as a recognizable fashion reference worldwide.
Origin of the Hairstyle
The haircut debuted with the launch of Peaky Blinders in 2013.
It features shaved sides combined with longer top‑length hair, mirroring the early‑20th‑century undercut worn by working‑class men in Birmingham.
The style was chosen to reflect the historical authenticity of Tommy Shelby’s gang.
- Shaved sides for a clean silhouette
- Longer, textured top for versatility
- Minimal use of styling products to maintain a rugged look
Global Reception
Since its introduction, the Tommy Shelby haircut has attracted attention across multiple continents.
Media reports note viewership spikes in cities such as Buenos Aires, Istanbul, and Mexico City.
Fashion designers have incorporated the cut into runway collections, and barbers report a surge in client requests for the look.
Notable Regions Reporting Popularity
- South America – Buenos Aires, São Paulo
- Europe – London, Istanbul, Berlin
- North America – Los Angeles, Toronto
Cillian Murphy’s Perspective
In a recent interview with People magazine, Murphy described the worldwide response as “humbling.”
He acknowledged that the haircut originally felt “disgusting” to him, but he has grown more tolerant as the style gained mainstream acceptance.
- Initially hesitant due to concerns about authenticity
- Recognized the haircut’s transition from “phony” wigs to a genuine look
- Observed fashion circles adopting the style despite early reservations
Cultural Influence
The Tommy Shelby haircut has transcended its fictional origins, becoming a symbol of gritty confidence in popular culture.
It appears in music videos, social‑media trends, and street‑style photography.
The cut’s association with the series has contributed to renewed interest in early‑20th‑century British fashion.
Upcoming Film Continuation
Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man reunites key characters, including Ada, Johnny Dogs, and new additions like Rebecca Ferguson.
The plot follows Tommy Shelby’s hidden life, a novel‑writing endeavor, and a renewed conflict involving Nazi Germany.
The film is currently in theatres and will begin streaming on Netflix on 20 March 2026.
Key Cast Members
- Cillian Murphy as Tommy Shelby
- Barry Keoghan as Duke Shelby
- Rebecca Ferguson as Kaulo
- Tim Roth as John Beckett
Key Takeaways
- The Tommy Shelby haircut originated as a historically inspired undercut for a 2013 TV series.
- Global audiences now associate the style with fashion, leading to widespread replication.
- Cillian Murphy acknowledges the haircut’s cultural impact while reflecting on his evolving personal view.
Quiz
| Question |
|---|
| Which actor commented on the global popularity of the Tommy Shelby haircut? |
| In which year did the original Peaky Blinders series premiere? |
| What historical purpose did the original undercut serve, according to the article? |

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