Creator of 'Peaky Blinders' Steven Knight is working on a new project focusing on boxing with Disney+.
The series, named 'A Thousand Blows', follows the perilous world of illegal boxing in 1880s Victorian London. The time period will match nicely with Knight's penchant for historical set pieces and design in his previous show.
Teaming up with him is former 'Peaky Blinders' star Stephen Graham. The 'Boiling Point' actor will executive produce and also star in the 12-part series.
Based on real-life figures and stories, the series will follow Hezekiah and Alec, two best friends from Jamaica. They find themselves thrust into the vibrant and violent melting pot of post-industrial revolution London’s East End.
Drawn into the criminal underbelly of the thriving boxing scene, Hezekiah meets Mary Carr, leader of The Forty Elephants — the notorious all-female London gang — as they battle for survival on the streets. As Hezekiah sharpens his new skills, he comes up against Sugar Goodson, a seasoned and dangerous boxer (Graham), and the two are soon locked into an intense rivalry that spills out way beyond the ring.
Knight created, wrote and executive produced the series. His other screenwriting credits include the likes of 'Spencer', 'Taboo' and the upcoming series 'SAS: Rogue Heroes'.
"I’m really thrilled to be working on this project with Stephen as well as the very talented production team and group of writers,” said Knight. "I always love to delve into untold history, and this is a story that really deserves to be told. We are recreating an amazing world and telling a remarkable true story."
Award-winning broadcaster and historian Professor David Olusoga will also act as executive producer on the series. Joining him are Hannah Walters for Matriarch Productions, Damian Keogh and Kate Lewis for The Story Collective, and Tom Miller and Sam Myer for Water & Power Productions.
