‘Peaky Blinders’ Creator Steven Knight Thought ‘Game of Thrones’ Was a Kids Show Before He Cast Aidan Gillen

As a seasoned movie enthusiast with a penchant for uncovering hidden gems, I find it utterly amusing to learn about Steven Knight‘s confession regarding his initial perception of “Game of Thrones.” It’s not every day that a renowned writer like him, who has created masterpieces such as “Peaky Blinders” and collaborated with the likes of Pablo Larraín, admits to underestimating a show’s mature content.


Writer Steven Knight admitted that he initially believed “Game of Thrones” was intended for children, until he worked with one of its actors on his own production.

At a gathering organized by the Royal Television Society in London, Steven Knight, renowned for producing “Peaky Blinders” featuring Cillian Murphy, confided in BBC journalist Katie Razzall during their discussion.

As a cinema enthusiast, I can’t forget the time my son was absolutely captivated by “Game of Thrones.” His eyes sparkled at the thought of it when he asked for the DVD boxset under our Christmas tree. Being a fellow fan, seeing dragons on the show, I happily granted his wish. It wasn’t until I brought Aidan Gillen, an actor from “Game of Thrones,” to join the cast of “Peaky Blinders” that I truly understood the depth and maturity of the George R.R. Martin-crafted series beyond its dragons and fantastical elements.

When someone mentioned Gillen as a potential fit for “Peaky,” they reminded Knight of his role as the brothel owner in “Game of Thrones.” Taken aback, Knight exclaimed, “Are you serious? That’s a kids’ program!

Gillen previously portrayed Lord Petyr Baelish in a popular HBO fantasy show, later transitioning to the character Aberama Gold on “Peaky.” He’s also made appearances in films like “The Dark Knight Rises,” TV shows such as “Mayor of Kingstown,” and the “Maze Runner” movie series.

During the conference, Knight disclosed some nostalgic anecdotes about “Peaky.” He revealed that the concept for the series set in Birmingham originated from him in the 1980s, which he proposed to a U.K. broadcaster, but unfortunately, it didn’t materialize at that time. “I initially wrote it as a novel and then submitted a proposal to Channel 4,” he explained. “I’m grateful it didn’t take off [back then]. The technology wasn’t advanced enough to portray a period drama like that accurately.

Back then, I stumbled upon an old, dusty idea for a TV series that I’d tucked away years ago – it was none other than the plotline for what would become “Peaky Blinders.

At present, a Netflix film version of the series is being developed by the Knight character. This production will feature Barry Keoghan, Rebecca Ferguson, and Murphy in leading roles. Although he refrained from disclosing any plot details, he hinted that the story takes place during World War II, suggesting it could be quite engaging.

The writer has enjoyed a rich and multifaceted professional journey, from jointly crafting the enduring game show “Who Wants to be a Millionaire” to preparing for an upcoming (as of yet unnamed) “Star Wars” film that will be helmed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, the director of “Ms. Marvel”.

He often works with director Pablo Larraín, having penned the script for “Spencer,” a film about Princess Diana played by Kristen Stewart, as well as the forthcoming “Maria” featuring Angelina Jolie. This last one was recently premiered at Venice.

The versatile artist, both writer, director, and producer, demonstrates an intense fervor for the British television and film sector. Notably, he established a comprehensive film and television studio compound in his hometown of Birmingham, which is also where he based “Peaky Blinders.

He stressed that our nation’s image is largely shaped by its industries, and he highlighted the significance of investing in the arts and cinema sectors in the U.K. He expressed the importance of making it clear to people within our country that pursuing a career in these fields is an option.

At the Royal Television Society conference, being held this year by Netflix, there are also other esteemed speakers such as Netflix’s streaming head Ted Sarandos, soccer icon David Beckham, and Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy.

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2024-09-17 14:47