Alfie Thomas Bland, a 20-year-old actor from Sheffield, has landed his first film role as Charles Shelby in the upcoming movie featuring Cillian Murphy. Set during the Second World War in 1940, the film continues the story of the Peaky Blinders saga, marking a much-anticipated return for fans of the original series.
Introducing Alfie Thomas Bland in a Key Role
Alfie Thomas Bland takes on the role of Charles Shelby, the son of Thomas and Grace Shelby. This marks his debut in cinema, acting alongside well-known cast members including Cillian Murphy, Sophie Rundle, Ned Dennehy, Packy Lee, Ian Peck, and Stephen Graham. New cast additions such as Rebecca Ferguson, Barry Keoghan, Tim Roth, and Jay Lycurgo also join the production.
Details on the Film’s Setting and Release
Directed by Tom Harper and penned by Steven Knight, the film is set nearly four years after the conclusion of the original series, during a tense period in 1940 amid the global conflict of the Second World War. The movie will premiere in cinemas on Friday, March 6, before becoming available on Netflix from March 20.
Alfie’s Experience on Set and Reflection on the Role
Reflecting on his experience, Alfie shared how surreal it was to work with such experienced actors.
“It was surreal to be on set, talking to people who I’ve looked up to in the industry,”
he said. He expressed admiration for working alongside Barry Keoghan and Rebecca Ferguson, valuing the opportunity to learn from them. Alfie also recalled his journey from watching Peaky Blinders in Year 10 to now portraying a member of the famed Shelby family:
“To be a part of such an already iconic franchise is incredible.”
Putting myself into the shoes of an already established character was interesting. I already understood the character’s circumstances, so I needed to be true to the character and value how they were already portrayed.
– Alfie Thomas Bland, Actor
Representation and Future Prospects
Alfie, currently signed with Articulate Agency in Bradford, embraces the challenge of respecting an established character’s legacy while making it his own. His involvement in this high-profile film alongside Cillian Murphy and other renowned actors from the Peaky Blinders universe signals a promising start to his acting career and adds fresh dimension to a story beloved by many in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, and beyond.
