Cillian Murphy Hates His Iconic ‘Peaky Blinders’ Haircut—Here’s Why Fans Are Still Obsessed

Cillian Murphy, renowned for his portrayal of Thomas “Tommy” Shelby in Peaky Blinders, became synonymous with one of the most iconic hairstyles in television history—the undercut. Known for its sharp crop on top and shaved sides, the “Peaky cut” was not just a defining feature of Shelby’s ruthless persona, but also a significant cultural trend. Despite the widespread popularity of the hairstyle, Murphy has expressed a longstanding personal aversion to it, preferring his natural, longer hair.

The “Peaky Cut” Explained

The “Peaky cut” became a hallmark of the Peaky Blinders aesthetic, with barbers across the world reporting increased requests for the look. The style, which features a disconnected undercut with a short crop on top and shaved sides, was inspired by the post-World War I era depicted in the show. Historically, such cuts were not only fashionable but practical, designed to help prevent lice in the working-class areas after the war. Laura Schiavo, the show’s hair and makeup designer, pointed out that this detail was rooted in historical accuracy.

Murphy’s Discomfort with the Style

Despite the undercut’s cultural significance, Murphy has been vocal about his dislike for the haircut. In a 2017 interview with ShortList Magazine, he admitted, “But people like the undercut thing; people go to the barber and ask for a ‘peaky cut’. It’s crazy that people like it, it’s not grown on me in four years now. I normally keep my hair long.” Murphy’s ongoing aversion to the style has been evident in various interviews, with the actor revealing that he was initially “alarmed” by the haircut when it was first suggested. Despite years of wearing it, his preference for longer hair remains a constant theme in his comments about his personal style.

Humor and Historical Context

Murphy’s discomfort with the “Peaky cut” is not without its humorous touch. In the same 2017 ShortList interview, he jokingly referred to the hairstyle as the “lice cut,” highlighting its practical origin. He humorously remarked, “But they do realise the people in turtlenecks in Hackney with this haircut, do they realise it was styled this way to prevent lice? Tell ‘em they have got the lice cut, see what they say then.” This playful comment not only underscores Murphy’s dislike for the cut but also educates fans about its historical purpose, adding an extra layer of humor to his critique.

Cultural Impact and Fan Reaction

Despite Murphy’s personal feelings, the “Peaky cut” has become a fashion phenomenon. The hairstyle, which has been widely adopted by fans and fashion enthusiasts alike, continues to be a symbol of the show’s gritty aesthetic. Publications like The Trend Spotter have noted that Tommy Shelby’s haircut has inspired modern men’s hairstyles, and it has become a staple of popular culture. Murphy’s surprise at the style’s enduring popularity, as mentioned in multiple interviews, suggests a disconnect between his personal style and the public’s reception of the character’s look.

The Online Debate

Murphy’s sentiments have not gone unnoticed. Online discussions, particularly on platforms like Reddit, have dissected his dislike for the haircut. A 2022 post titled “Cillian Murphy hates his Tommy Shelby haircut” generated significant engagement, reflecting the awareness and curiosity fans have about the actor’s personal preferences. This widespread discussion underscores the tension between Murphy’s aversion to the hairstyle and its cultural significance.

Conclusion

Cillian Murphy’s iconic role as Tommy Shelby would not be the same without the “Peaky cut.” However, his personal discomfort with the style, coupled with its historical context and immense cultural impact, offers an intriguing perspective on the character’s enduring appeal. While Murphy may never warm to the undercut, its status as a symbol of the show and its influence on modern fashion is undeniable. The tension between Murphy’s personal taste and the public’s embrace of the “Peaky cut” adds yet another layer to the fascinating legacy of Peaky Blinders.