Despite the violent and criminal world that is post-war Birmingham, the characters in Peaky Blinders have managed to form some meaningful and genuine relationships. These relationships don’t always come in the form of romance, but instead, platonic and family love that runs deeper than anything else.
These relationships often guide the characters and keep them sane, however, they are by no means straightforward. Fans have grown increasingly attached to the bonds these characters share, and whether these are formed through family ties or business dealings, each one plays an integral role in the Peaky Blinders' story.
Aberama And Bonnie
A loving father-son relationship was a rare occurrence in Peaky Blinders, however, the introduction of Aberama and Bonnie Gold in season 4 demonstrated that it can still exist amidst a violent life of crime. The two always supported each other, displayed through Bonnie joining his father on dangerous missions and Aberama helping Bonnie achieve his dream of becoming a professional boxer.
In early season 5, in one of the most shocking deaths in the series, Bonnie is brutally murdered by Jimmy McCavern and Aberama is devastated. Although he is an avid member of the Peaky Blinders, Aberama's story in season 5 is primarily driven by his desire to avenge Bonnie’s death.
Polly And Michael
Although Polly was fierce and the strongest woman in Peaky Blinders, a part of her soul was missing during season 1, however, this changed when she reunited with Michael in season 2. Polly kept a watchful eye on Michael, not wanting him involved in the illegitimate and violent business dealings of Shelby Company Limited.
Michael’s wellbeing quickly became Polly’s main priority. When Campbell has him arrested, Polly was forced to have sex with him in return for her son's release. Michael’s plot to replace Tommy causes a strain on their relationship, however, they remain instrumental in each other's lives. After Polly's death, Michael blames Tommy and vows to take revenge on him for the part he played.
Tommy And Ada
As her older brother, Tommy is extremely protective of Ada. Her relationship with Freddie Thorne and pregnancy is one of the biggest scandals on the show, and while Tommy disapproves, she continues their relationship regardless because she is one of few people who isn’t fazed by her brother’s threats. After Freddie’s death, Ada is somewhat isolated from her family, however, Tommy is the one who continues looking out for her.
Unlike most Shelbys, Ada has an honest streak and openly voices her concerns about Tommy’s criminal activity. Although they don’t always agree, Tommy recognizes Ada’s potential and asks her to be a leading member of Shelby Company Limited in America, to which Ada accepts, on the promise that it’s legal.
Arthur And John
Through their shared experiences of war and illegitimate business dealings, Arthur and John share a close bond in the series. As Tommy is the leader of the Shelbys, Arthur and John are more similar in terms of job roles within the family and company, not hesitating to resort to violence or even murder when they need to.
When the war with the Italians hits its peak in season 4, John is murdered by Luca Changretta's men, leaving Arthur distraught. John’s death is the only thing that unites the Shelby family after a year apart, with Arthur wanting revenge on the man that took his brother.
Tommy And Alfie
As relationships go, Tommy's and Alfie's has to be the most complex of all. The two put each other through all kinds of ordeals, from Alfie making a deal with Luca Changretta resulting in Arthur's supposed death to Tommy shooting Alfie and leaving him blind in one eye.
Both make it clear on several occasions that neither can be trusted, however, business always seems to bring them back together. Although they can switch from friends to enemies in a heartbeat, they have an unmarked level of respect for each other that makes their unpredictable relationship captivating to watch.
Polly And Ada
As two of the strongest women in the series, Polly and Ada were a force to be reckoned with. Although Polly is Ada’s Aunt, their relationship resembles that of sisters. When Ada becomes pregnant with Freddie Thorne's child, Polly is one of few people who sympathizes with her because she understands what it’s like being pregnant and alone.
Both Polly and Ada are incredibly intelligent, typically staying out of violence and talking sense into the men in their family. The post-war period was a difficult time for women, however, Polly and Ada make for an incredibly powerful duo and they were inseparable until Polly's heartbreaking death.
Tommy And Arthur
There are few people that Tommy can trust with his life, however, Arthur arguably sits at the top of that list. Together, the brothers engage in a life of crime and illegal business, with Tommy taking the reins and Arthur holding the position of his right-hand man.
Despite being the eldest Shelby brother, Arthur accepts Tommy as the leader and is incredibly loyal to him, making sure his plans and wild schemes are executed correctly. Although their relationship is complex, their bond means they can depend on each other no matter who or what comes up against them.
Tommy And Polly
While Tommy is the known leader, Polly is the true matriarch of the Shelby family. They have a mutual level of respect for each other, with Polly being Tommy’s advisor on anything business or family-related. Polly does her best to keep Tommy in line and in doing so, the two form an intelligent yet vicious team capable of crossing anyone.
Neither enjoys showing weakness, but both display a sense of vulnerability and warmth in each other’s presence. Polly’s death is a devastating blow to the family, especially Tommy who is overcome with grief and guilt. Four years later, he's still struggling and seems lost without her.