A thousand blows star ‘Felt like rocky’ training for peaky blinders creator’s new boxing drama
Disney+ is set to deliver a knockout with its new boxing drama, A Thousand Blows, and for lead actor Malachi Kirby, preparing for the role was an experience that brought back memories of the iconic Rocky film franchise. Speaking to Yahoo UK, Kirby revealed how training for the show made him feel like Sylvester Stallone’s legendary character, particularly during gruelling winter sessions reminiscent of Rocky IV.
The six-part series, created by Peaky Blinders mastermind Steven Knight, transports viewers to Victorian-era London, where it follows an array of characters in the East End’s gritty, underground boxing scene. Kirby portrays Jamaican immigrant Hezekiah Moscow, a real-life boxing prodigy whose journey through the ring introduces him to key figures such as boxer Sugar Goodson (played by Stephen Graham) and professional thief Mary Carr (Erin Doherty).
A dream role for malachi kirby
Reflecting on the opportunity to bring Moscow’s story to life, Kirby expressed sheer joy at the experience. “It was a joy for me. The little kid in me came out—the one who loved the Rocky films back in the day,” he said. “I started training in the winter, so I think that was like Rocky IV or something—you’re out in the snow training. That was a dream for me. I loved every second of this job, literally.”
His enthusiasm extended beyond the physical training, describing the entire experience—from auditions to production—as a personal highlight. “From the audition process up until right now, I’ve loved every single moment of this job. Usually, this is the worst part—when the show comes out and I think, ‘This is the last job I’ll ever have.’ But I’m so excited, I’m so hopeful. I don’t know how people will receive it, and at this point, I actually don’t care. I’m just glad to be part of it. I think we’ve done something really special, and I can’t wait to share it with the world.”
Ashley Walters brings energy behind the camera
Adding to the excitement of the show, Top boy star Ashley Walters has stepped behind the camera, directing half of the first season. His involvement as a director was met with enthusiasm by the cast, who relished working with someone who had once been in their shoes.
Daniel Mays, who plays MC Punch Lewis, praised Walters’ transition from actor to director: “I’ve worked with Ashley before as an actor, but having him direct me was mad. He took to it like a duck to water. His episodes, particularly in the latter half of the season, are so finely tuned—every beat, every dramatic moment is realised. He’s done a sterling job.”
Francis Lovehall, who plays Alec Munroe, echoed this sentiment, calling Walters’ move behind the camera “inspiring.” He added: “I grew up watching Bullet Boy, and seeing him transition into a director so seamlessly was incredible.”
So solid crew nostalgia on set
One particularly amusing aspect of working with Walters was his past as a member of so solid crew. The rapper-turned-director couldn’t escape his iconic track 21 Seconds, as the cast frequently encouraged him to perform it on set. James Nelson-Joyce, who plays Treacle Goodson, confessed to singing the song at every opportunity, while mays quipped: “Ashley was breaking into 21 Seconds all the time. That’s how you knew you had a good take under your belt.”
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Morgan Hilaire, who also stars in the series, spoke highly of Walters’ understanding of actors’ needs. “Because he’s been on both sides of the camera, he just gets it. Some of his notes wouldn’t make sense to anyone else, but to an actor, it’s exactly what you need to hear.” Her co-star Darci Shaw (Alice Diamond) added: “He just let you follow your gut instinct and gave guidance that felt so natural.”
An emotional connection to storytelling
Hannah Walters, both an actor and executive producer on the series, commended Ashley Walters for his emotional integrity in storytelling. “Because he’s an actor himself, his understanding of character journeys is paramount. That’s why the emotional depth within each episode is so strong—he just knows how to bring it to life.”
With a gripping narrative, a talented cast, and a director who truly understands the craft, A Thousand Blows promises to be an electrifying addition to the world of period dramas. Whether you’re a boxing fan, a lover of historical storytelling, or simply looking for a thrilling new series, this one is definitely worth a watch.
