Cillian Murphy praises Barry Keoghan’s acting in ‘The Immortal Man’

Cillian Murphy, speaking about his co-star Barry Keoghan during a recent interview with The Independent, praised Keoghan’s unique presence and depth as Duke Shelby in Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man. According to Murphy, “Keoghan has that thing where he’s instantly interesting simply by being on camera; he brings an intense yet vulnerable energy to the role.”

Murphy described Keoghan’s character as a complex figure who seamlessly embodies contradictory traits—intensity and fragility—making Duke’s journey both relatable and compelling. This combination allows audiences to genuinely connect with Duke, experiencing his arc with authenticity.

Offscreen, Murphy also spoke about the broader landscape of the acting industry, highlighting the need for accessible opportunities for emerging talent. He emphasized that success should not be reserved only for those from privileged backgrounds, stating that such a restrictive environment would harm young actors’ prospects.

Murphy underscored the importance of community programs and resources like youth drama groups and libraries in nurturing aspiring performers. “Success shouldn’t just be an exclusive privilege,” he noted. “There’s no need to rule out kids who might not come from privileged backgrounds. Youth clubs, dramas, and libraries provide vital pathways for young actors.”

Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man premiered at Symphony Hall in Birmingham on March 2-3, 2026, with select cinema releases scheduled for March 6, 2026. The film will become available exclusively on Netflix starting March 20, 2026.