Peaky Blinders is a popular British crime drama series that follows the exploits of the Shelby family, a gang of criminals who operate in Birmingham, England, in the aftermath of World War I. The show features many memorable characters, such as the ruthless leader Tommy Shelby (Cillian Murphy), the fierce matriarch Polly Gray (Helen McCrory), and the loyal ally Alfie Solomons (Tom Hardy).
But one character who often steals the scene with his quirky personality and love for horses is Curly (Ian Peck), a stable boy and ferryman who works in Charlie Strong’s Yard. Curly is a close friend of Tommy and often helps him with various tasks, such as transporting weapons, hiding bodies, and taking care of horses. But how is Curly related to Tommy Shelby? And what is the secret behind their friendship?
Curly’s background
Curly is what is known in the language of the time, “simple minded.” Despite this, he has a deep knowledge and skill with horses. He walks with a trot, indicating a previous leg injury. Curly is a Gypsy and it’s implied that he and Charlie Strong are related.
Curly first appears in the first episode of the series, when he warns Tommy that his newly bought horse has been cursed by the Lee Family, a rival clan of Gypsies. He is very distressed by the animal’s pain and begs Tommy to kill it. Tommy refuses, but later discovers that the horse was indeed poisoned by the Lees.
Curly has appeared in every season of Peaky Blinders so far, and has been involved in many of the Shelby family’s adventures. He has shown loyalty, courage, and humor throughout the series, often providing comic relief with his naive remarks and eccentric behavior.
Curly’s relationship with Tommy Shelby
Curly is not related to Tommy Shelby by blood, but he is considered part of the Shelby family by association. He works for Charlie Strong, who is Tommy’s uncle and godfather. Charlie is a former sailor and smuggler who runs a scrap yard and a boatyard on the River Severn. He is also a Peaky Blinder and a trusted ally of Tommy.
Curly and Tommy have a close friendship that goes beyond their professional ties. They share a mutual respect and affection for each other, as well as a passion for horses. In season two, Tommy tells May Carleton (Charlotte Riley), a wealthy widow and horse trainer, that Curly is the best horseman in England. He also entrusts him with his prized horse, Grace’s Secret, named after his late wife.
Curly has also proven to be a valuable asset for Tommy in his various schemes and missions. He has helped him transport guns, ammunition, whiskey, opium, gold, and other contraband across the country. He has also helped him dispose of corpses, such as those of Billy Kimber’s men in season one and Luca Changretta’s men in season four.
Curly has also shown loyalty and bravery in defending Tommy and his family from their enemies. In season five, he joins Tommy in his fight against Oswald Mosley (Sam Claflin), a fascist politician who wants to overthrow the British government. He also attends Tommy’s farewell meal on the grounds of the now demolished Arrow House in season six.
Curly’s transformation
In season six, episode five, titled The Road to Hell, fans were stunned by Curly’s appearance as he looked noticeably slimmer than usual. Some viewers wondered if he had been replaced by another actor, but the credits confirmed that Ian Peck was still playing the role.
There is no official explanation for Curly’s weight loss, but some fans speculated that it could be due to his age or health issues. Others suggested that it could be a deliberate choice to reflect Curly’s character development or the harsh conditions of the 1930s.
Whatever the reason, Curly remains one of the most beloved characters on Peaky Blinders and a loyal friend to Tommy Shelby. His fate in season six is yet to be revealed, but fans hope that he will survive the series finale and continue to share his wisdom and humor with the audience.
