Peaky Blinders creator on inspiration, celebrity fans, and Snoop Dogg’s influence

Peaky Blinders maker Steven Knight says American artist Snoop Dogg told him how much he bonds to the series.
Peaky Blinders maker Steven Knight says American artist Snoop Dogg told him how much he bonds to the series.

Peaky Blinders maker Steven Knight says American artist Snoop Dogg told him how much he bonds to the series.

Meeting Snoop Dogg: A Universal Connection

Steven Knight, the creator of the hit show Peaky Blinders, recently shared his fascinating encounter with rapper Snoop Dogg during an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs.

Knight explained how their meeting revealed the universal appeal of the show, with people from diverse backgrounds, including Eastern Europe and Buenos Aires, resonating with its themes.

Snoop Dogg, a well-known fan of the show, opened up to Knight about his life and family, which led Knight to reflect on how Peaky Blinders connects with audiences globally. The show reminded the rapper of his own involvement in gang culture, which provided Knight with a deeper understanding of the show’s impact.

Inspiration from Family Stories

Knight, who grew up as the youngest of seven children in Birmingham, based Peaky Blinders on stories from his parents’ childhoods.

His mother, who worked for bookmakers known as “peaky blinders” when betting was illegal, inspired some of the show’s most compelling elements. Despite her later years as a cleaner and factory worker, Knight’s mother possessed a resilience that he sought to capture in the series.

His father, a blacksmith who took on work from a nearby Romany camp and scrap metal yard, also influenced the show’s narrative.

Also read: Miss South Africa finalist faces xenophobic backlash

Knight recalled how the people he encountered growing up were larger-than-life, rebellious figures who lived on the fringes of the law but were warm and deeply connected to their families.

Peaky Blinders’ Global Reach and Celebrity Fans

Peaky Blinders aired in 180 countries, gaining a vast international following, including celebrity fans like Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise.

The show, which ran for six seasons from 2013 to 2022, starred Cillian Murphy as the iconic Tommy Shelby. Murphy’s portrayal of Shelby earned him widespread acclaim, and he is set to reprise his role in the upcoming film adaptation of the series.

During his meeting with Snoop Dogg, Knight was struck by the rapper’s reflections on family, loyalty, and the challenges of escaping a troubled past.

The discussion highlighted the shared human experiences that Peaky Blinders taps into, showing that even those living “big, glamorous, dramatic lives” are driven by the same emotions and passions as everyone else.

A Show Rooted in Real-Life Experiences

Knight emphasized that Peaky Blinders was inspired by the real-life stories and characters he encountered growing up. His parents’ experiences, along with the vibrant and sometimes dangerous people they knew, shaped the show’s narrative.

Knight wanted to convey the respect and dignity of these lives, showcasing how even those on the fringes of society possess a deep humanity that resonates with audiences worldwide.

As Peaky Blinders continues to captivate viewers with its gritty portrayal of 1920s Birmingham, Knight’s personal connection to the story and the universal themes it explores ensure its place as a beloved and enduring piece of television history.

Gary Monroe

Gary Monroe is a seasoned contributor to the Los Angeles Business Magazine, where he offers insightful analysis on local business trends and economic developments. With a focus on Los Angeles' dynamic commercial landscape, Gary's articles provide valuable perspectives for entrepreneurs and business professionals in the city.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous Story

Leonardo DiCaprio and Vittoria Ceretti enjoy romantic getaway in Italy

Next Story

Tom Cruise steals the show at Paris 2024 closing ceremony

Latest from ENTERTAINMENT

withemes on instagram

This error message is only visible to WordPress admins

Error: No feed found.

Please go to the Instagram Feed settings page to create a feed.