They've become synonymous with Birmingham and now, Tommy Shelby and his gang of "Peaky f***ing Blinders" could be about to make an appearance at the Commonwealth Games' 2022. Steven Knight, the man behind the popular BBC drama, has been actively involved in both the opening and closing ceremonies. Although there was no direct appearance at the opening ceremony, attentions have now turned to the closing event.
As to whether Shelby and the Peakys will show up, the BBC previously reported that Knight was reluctant to reveal whether his flat cap-wearing Peaky Blinders leader would be involved. "I can't tell you," he said prior to the start of the Games. "But there are two shows - the opening and the closing [ceremonies]. So over those two, you'll see."
The BBC has now confirmed that the Peakys will show up in some capacity. Announcing the line-up for the event, it has been revealed that there will be a special performance of Peaky Blinders: The Redemption of Thomas Shelby - a dance performance inspired by the TV show.
Through dance theatre, the performance tells the story of Tommy and his beloved Grace, from when they met during World War I while Tommy served as a Sergeant Major, and Grace was operating as an undercover agent for the Birmingham Police on a mission to get close to Shelby whom she fell in love with.
Upon taking on the producer role, Knight previously told the Guardian that he was keen to grab any opportunity to “bang the drum for Birmingham and to let people know what a fantastic, multicultural, welcoming city it had been and continues to be”.
The closing ceremony, which will take place in front of a live audience of 30,000, will include a formal handover to the state of Victoria, Australia, which will host the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
The show, which has been created by directors Amber Rimell and Bronski from Tawbox - known for shows at Glastonbury and the Brits - is aimed at showcasing the region's musical talent from the past, present and future.
The Commonwealth Games' closing ceremony airs on BBC One on Monday, August 8, at 8pm.
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