7 Most underrated characters from Peaky Blinders

When individuals discuss Peaky Blinders, the focus naturally falls on the legendary Tommy Shelby, his complicated family, and the explosive drama that surrounds their criminal empire. Although these central characters receive much of the attention, the brilliance of the show also lies in its quieter, often overlooked figures who bring emotional depth, moral tension, and subtle storytelling to the forefront. These unsung heroes and loyalists may not command much screen time, but they leave a lasting impression, often serving as the conscience, backbone, or emotional anchor in a world fueled by ambition and violence.

Whether it’s a devoted Romani friend, a battle-hardened comrade, or a woman fighting to preserve her dignity amid chaos, each underappreciated character adds something vital to the show’s rich narrative. Across six action-packed seasons, they’ve worked in the shadows—yet their impact is undeniable. Here, we shine a light on seven characters whose value is rarely voiced but remains essential to the soul of Peaky Blinders.

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Most underrated characters from Peaky Blinders

1. Johnny Dogs

Johnny Dogs doesn’t wear a suit or own a business, but his allegiance is impenetrable. A Romani friend to Tommy Shelby, he frequently works behind the scenes—cleaning up, keeping secrets, and navigating treacherous terrain without hesitation. As the series progresses, his quiet cleverness becomes essential, particularly when the threat of betrayal looms over the camp. Few viewers realize how instrumental he is to Tommy’s survival, especially in situations where brute force falls short and street smarts prevail. His instincts are sharp, and his loyalty unwavering—rendering Johnny more than a supporting character, but the show’s quiet safety net.

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2. Aberama Gold

Aberama Gold burst into the show like a hurricane—ferocious, idealistic, and wild. As a father and a hitman driven by revenge, he was ruthless yet deeply emotional—a rare blend in the show’s hyper-masculine world. His relationship with Polly Gray revealed a gentler side, adding surprising depth to his character. Though his death came abruptly, its emotional weight lingered. Aberama was never just muscle; he was Tommy’s mirror: haunted, strategic, and yearning for peace. His arc deserved more richness, and his elimination in the final season felt like a missed opportunity to explore how love and legacy take shape within a criminal dynasty.

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3. Barney Thomason

Barney Thomason’s screen time was limited, but it left an impact. A retired sniper and buddy of Tommy’s from their combat days, Barney was a heartbreaking casualty of unresolved trauma. His unsettling calmness and quiet reserve hinted at deep psychological wounds masked by discipline. His involvement in the assassination scheme revealed the ghostly aftermath of war and the invisible bonds that trauma forges. Many viewers overlook how Barney’s psychological instability quietly reflects Tommy’s own inner turmoil. His execution wasn’t just a plot twist—it was a brutal commentary on how veterans, even among their comrades, are cast aside once deemed expendable.

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4. Jeremiah Jesus

A Black preacher and wartime comrade, Jeremiah Jesus brought religious equilibrium and moral toughness to Tommy’s erratic world. While not a central figure, he was always ready when called—armed with scripture and a shotgun. Jeremiah is one of the rare characters who stood by Tommy out of deep personal loyalty, not fear or ambition. His presence also introduced racial and cultural nuance into the series’ otherwise stark portrayal of post-war Britain. Though later overshadowed by louder figures, Jeremiah remains a lasting symbol of brotherhood and quiet honor.

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5. Esme Shelby

Esme Shelby never stayed silent in a room full of Shelbys. Spiritual, fierce, and defiantly independent, she often challenged Tommy’s authority in ways few dared. Her Romani heritage and disdain for the Shelby empire made her stand apart, offering a rare female perspective not rooted in ambition or trauma. Her return in Season 6 brought new energy and an almost prophetic edge to the story, as she spoke of curses and fate, infusing Tommy’s arc with a mythic quality. Though her screen time was limited, Esme left viewers wanting more—a strong, multidimensional woman in a world of broken men.

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6. Lizzie Shelby

Lizzie Shelby’s transformation from sex worker to the wife of Tommy Shelby is one of the most dramatic character arcs in Peaky Blinders. Originally underestimated and belittled, Lizzie evolves into a multifaceted woman defined by self-respect, suffering, and love. As Tommy’s secretary-turned-wife, she constantly negotiates the emotional cost of being tethered to a man at war with himself. In Season 6, her grief over Ruby’s death and her final split from Tommy mark her breaking free from decades of emotional repression. Lizzie is far more than a supporting character—she’s a survivor whose quiet strength and moral clarity add vital emotional realism to the series.

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7. Charlie Strong

Charlie Strong, Tommy’s stoic uncle and the Shelby Company’s transport yard caretaker, serves as a pillar of quiet strength throughout the series. Not flashy or domineering, Charlie operates as a mentor, mechanic, and calm constant in Tommy’s turbulent world. His deep ties to the family’s Romani heritage and his logistical savvy make him indispensable. Viewers often overlook how Charlie, with few words and fewer demands, gently guides Tommy with the wisdom of age and experience. In the final season, his silent grief and unwavering loyalty reveal a deep emotional core. Charlie is the show’s quiet anchor—strong, solid, and fiercely devoted.