Exploring Tommy Shelby’s 8 Romantic Relationships in Peaky Blinders

Warning! This article contains SPOILERS for Peaky Blinders season 6.

Throughout the gripping saga of Peaky Blinders, Tommy Shelby, portrayed by Cillian Murphy, has experienced romantic entanglements with several women, each playing a significant role in shaping his character and the dynamics of the Shelby family tree. His relationships, ranging from supportive partners to tragic figures, added layers of romance and drama to the narrative. This article explores eight pivotal women in Tommy’s life, drawing connections to both the fictional storyline and historical elements within the series.

1 Grace Burgess

Played By: Anabelle Wallis

Grace Burgess remains the most significant love interest introduced in Peaky Blinders. Initially an undercover spy for Inspector Campbell, her mission to infiltrate the Peaky Blinders took an unexpected turn when she fell in love with Tommy.

Their passionate connection led Grace to betray Campbell, ultimately assisting Tommy in evading legal troubles. Although she faced exile from the gang in the first season, Grace returned by the end of season two. Notably, she was pregnant with Tommy’s child, Charles, prompting him to choose her over his then love interest, May Carleton. Their marriage in season 3 was short-lived, tragically ending with Grace’s murder at the hands of Vincente Changretta. Even after her passing, Tommy’s psychological scars left him haunted by her memory.

2 May Carleton

Played By: Charlotte Riley

May Carleton entered Tommy’s life after Grace, assuring him she would captivate him. Her ruthless yet spirited approach contrasted sharply with Grace’s gentleness. May actively pursued Tommy by suggesting he abandon his gentlemanly facade to embrace his gangster nature. She claimed their collaboration would invigorate them both, emphasizing her desire for excitement.

Though Tommy ultimately married Grace, May resurfaced briefly in season 4, demonstrating the intricate web of emotions surrounding Tommy’s heart.

3 Tatyana Petrovna

Played By: Gaite Jansen

In season 3, Tommy’s encounter with the enigmatic Russian princess, Tatiana Petrovna, showcased his struggles to separate love from business. Tatiana sought Tommy’s help to retrieve her family’s jewels and seduced him in the process.

Polly noted that Tommy, still grappling with grief over Grace, sought distraction through Tatiana. Although he initially viewed her as a means to an end, Tatiana’s turbulent nature ultimately reflected Tommy’s inner turmoil.

4 Jessie Eden

Played By: Charlie Murphy

Jessie Eden, a real-life labor reformist, entered the scene as a stark opponent to Tommy in season 4. Championing workers’ rights, Jessie confronted him regarding the gender pay gap within the Shelby Company Limited, igniting a fierce rivalry. However, as their ideological battles unfolded, a romantic connection blossomed.

Despite their passionate engagement, Tommy’s ulterior motives—spying and deceit—threatened their relationship. Jessie’s eventual discovery of Tommy’s manipulation culminated in a bitter fallout, questioning the authenticity of their entanglement.

5 Lizzie Stark

Played By: Natasha O’Keeffe

Lizzie Stark emerged as Tommy’s second wife, solidifying her position as one of his most enduring love interests. Initially a sex worker whom Tommy cherished, Lizzie eventually became an integral part of the Shelby Company after bearing Tommy’s daughter, Ruby.

Despite her devotion, their marriage was fraught with issues, including infidelity and abuse, which led to Lizzie ultimately leaving Tommy with their son, Charles. Yet, her affection for him persisted, exemplified by her efforts to care for Grace’s child and assist him through his mental health struggles.

6 Diana Mitford

Played By: Amber Anderson

Diana Mitford, Tommy’s latest romantic interest, became notorious for her ties to Oswald Mosley, his main adversary. Tommy was instantly captivated upon meeting her, but Diana proved to be a formidable foe with her unwavering commitment to Mosley’s fascist politics.

Ultimately, Tommy’s business priorities took precedence as Mosley married Diana, imposing a menacing ultimatum to Tommy regarding his future interactions with her. The complex dynamics established between them leave the door open for conflicts yet to come.

7 Greta Jurossi

Played By: Unknown

Young Tommy Shelby with Greta Jurossi in Peaky Blinders

Prior to Grace, Tommy’s earlier love, Greta Jurossi, highlights the emotional depths he experienced. Referenced by Jessie Eden, Greta, a young woman facing familial disapproval, shared a deep bond with Tommy until her tragic death from consumption at the tender age of 19.

Tommy’s grief resonated profoundly, as he reportedly remained by her side throughout her illness, underscoring his capacity for genuine love and attachment.

8 Zelda

Played By: Unseen

Finally, the revelations of season 6 introduced viewers to Zelda, a Romani woman with whom Tommy had a fleeting yet passionate affair before heading off to battle in WWI. Their brief relationship resulted in the birth of Erasmus “Duke”Shelby, who later rejoined the family.

Tragically, Zelda faced harsh abandonment during her time of need, dying before reuniting with Tommy. This encounter reinforces the theme of loss that permeates Tommy’s love life.

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