Arthur Shelby, Jr.

Grew up… in England at the turn of the 20th century. Arthur comes from a line of Romani criminals who took up residence in Birmingham, England. He is the eldest Shelby child and has experienced loss and heartache over the years. Arthur fought in the tunnels during World War I and suffers from severe PTSD. 

Living… in the neighborhood of Small Health, Birmingham. Arthur spends his days smoking cigarettes and downing whiskeys. Since the war, drowning his sorrows in drugs and alcohol is the only thing that helps him forget. Lately, even this hasn’t been enough, so he turns to cocaine.

Profession… gangster. Arthur may be the oldest Shelby brother, but he is most definitely not in charge. Arthur isn’t great with numbers or playing nice, so he is often assigned the dirtier jobs. Smashing men against concrete pillars or cutting off ears is just part of the job. Arthur has a little too much fun doling out blows.

Relationship status… single. Arthur is a bachelor and wouldn’t have it any other way. He frequents the brothels, favoring one night stands to long-term relationships.

Challenge… finding his footing in the Shelby family while dealing with his mental health. Arthur hasn’t had it easy. Years of getting punched in the head have damaged something in him, and he’s not sure he wants to keep living. Tommy has effectively taken over the Peaky Blinders, and Arthur feels like he is losing his sense of purpose. 

Personality… crude, violent, and depressed. Arthur is spirited and lively, but deep down, he is battling serious demons. He saves face by channeling his anger outwards, getting into fights and looking for trouble.