The wait is finally over for Peaky Blinders fans. The movie Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man has arrived on Netflix, bringing the story of Tommy Shelby to a close. But while the film brings back many familiar faces, one character is noticeably missing: Arthur Shelby.
For years, viewers wondered what happened to Tommy’s older brother. The actor who played him, Paul Anderson, confirmed he was not returning for the movie. Now that the film is out, the heartbreaking truth about Arthur’s fate has finally been revealed. The answer is not just that Arthur died—it is that his own brother killed him.
Arthur Shelby’s Death Confirmed in The Immortal Man
The movie is set in 1940, two years after the events of the TV series finale. Early in the film, it becomes clear that Arthur Shelby is no longer alive. Tommy visits a grave marked with Arthur’s name, and the audience learns that Arthur passed away in 1938.
At first, the film suggests multiple possibilities. Some characters believe Arthur died by suicide. Others think it was an accident. But the full truth is darker. During a tense moment in the movie, Tommy Shelby (Cillian Murphy) confesses to his sister Ada that he killed Arthur himself.
The confession comes after a moment of rage. Tommy admits he was filled with “booze and rage” when he confronted his brother. He strangled Arthur, explaining that he “wanted to be free of him.” For a man who spent the entire series protecting his family at all costs, this act marks his lowest point.
Why Paul Anderson Did Not Return for the Movie
Fans noticed right away that Paul Anderson was not part of the cast for The Immortal Man. The actor addressed this directly in interviews. He told LADbible that he was “slightly apprehensive” about the movie and did not see a reason to end the story with a film instead of more seasons.
Anderson admitted he had watched the finished movie and called it “amazing.” Regarding Arthur’s death, he said he respected the decision. He explained that creator Steven Knight gave him a heads-up about the “sad” reveal, and Anderson thought it was a powerful choice.
“I think it’s great,” he said. “It’s such a powerful thing to do. It’s something you don’t see on TV.”
For the brief flashback scenes showing the fight between Tommy and Arthur, the filmmakers used an uncredited stand-in. Anderson did not return to film those moments.
Fan Reactions Divided Over Arthur’s Death
The revelation that Tommy killed Arthur has sparked intense debate among fans. Many took to Reddit to share their thoughts after watching the movie. Some were deeply unhappy with the writing choice.
One fan wrote:
“I enjoyed the movie but there were a few flaws. I think the major thing was the way they dealt with Arthur’s absence. It was inevitable he would be dead but it didn’t ring true to me that Tommy would kill him on purpose.”
Another viewer agreed:
“I have a big problem with him killing Arthur. The TV show reminds us over and over that family is Tommy’s strength, he will do anything for them. Kill Arthur off fine, but don’t pretend I am oblivious and expect me to believe Tommy would kill him.”
However, not all reactions were negative. Some fans felt the ending fit Arthur’s character.
One person noted:
“Not surprised Arthur was killed. He was a maniac in the series.”
Another offered a different perspective:
“Arthur was always a soldier who needed a leader and Tommy couldn’t take it any longer and snapped in a heated, drugged out moment. I think people are looking at Tommy through rose colored glasses.”
Where Arthur’s Story Leaves the Shelby Family
Arthur’s death serves as a major driving force for Tommy in the movie. After killing his brother, Tommy goes into self-imposed exile, isolating himself from the family and the gang. He is haunted by visions of Arthur, unable to escape the guilt of what he did.
The movie ends Tommy’s story on a dramatic note. For fans of the series, Arthur’s fate closes a chapter on one of television’s most memorable sibling relationships. Arthur was always the emotional heart of the Peaky Blinders—the loyal soldier who followed his brother into violence and chaos.
In an earlier interview with the BBC, Paul Anderson described Arthur’s role in the family. He said Arthur was content with the world as it was, lacking Tommy’s ambition. That lack of ambition and his struggles with drinking and drugs ultimately led to his downfall.
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How to Watch Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man
The movie is now available for streaming worldwide on Netflix. It was released in cinemas on March 6, 2026, before arriving on the streaming platform on March 20, 2026. Viewers in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and India can all watch it now with a Netflix subscription.
The Immortal Man is set during World War II and brings Tommy Shelby back to Birmingham to face his biggest challenge yet. The film also stars Barry Keoghan as Tommy’s son Duke, Rebecca Ferguson, and Tim Roth.
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