A Thousand Blows: Knockout Victorian boxing drama from the creator of Peaky Blinders lands on Disney+

Gloves off, the Mouse House is stepping into the ring with A Thousand Blows, an electrifying new drama set in the dangerous and gritty world of illegal boxing in 1880s Victorian London. From the creative mind of Steven Knight, the mastermind behind Peaky Blinders, this six-part original series promises to pack a punch when it premieres February 21, 2025, exclusively on Disney+ in the UK and Ireland.

The show introduces viewers to the underworld of East End London during the post-industrial revolution, a melting pot of cultures, ambitions, and brutality. Amidst the cobbled streets and gas-lit alleyways, the world of illicit boxing thrives, providing both a livelihood and a battleground for survival.

From the creative mind of Steven Knight, the mastermind behind Peaky Blinders, this six-part original series promises to pack a punch…

At the heart of this intriguing drama is Hezekiah Moscow (played by BAFTA-winner Malachi Kirby, Small Axe), a Jamaican immigrant navigating the perilous streets of the Victorian capital. Drawn into the boxing scene, Hezekiah’s journey becomes entangled with Mary Carr (Erin Doherty, The Crown), leader of infamous all-female gang, The Forty Elephants, and the ruthless Sugar Goodson (Stephen Graham, Boiling Point, Boardwalk Empire), a seasoned boxer and formidable foe.

As Hezekiah hones his skills, he finds himself embroiled in an escalating rivalry with Sugar Goodson, a clash that transcends the ring. Alongside Mary Carr and the resourceful Forty Elephants, Hezekiah must navigate betrayal, ambition, and survival, culminating in a high-stakes showdown where every blow counts.

Behind the punches

Bringing this visceral world to life is a stellar cast, with Stephen Graham not only starring but also serving as executive producer. The ensemble features a mix of rising stars and seasoned actors, including Francis Lovehall as Alec Munroe, Hezekiah’s loyal best friend; Jason Tobin as Mr. Lao, a shadowy figure in the East End’s underbelly and James Nelson-Joyce as Edward ‘Treacle’ Goodson, Sugar’s equally volatile sibling.

The Forty Elephants gang introduces an array of fierce characters, including Hannah Walters as Eliza Moody, Darci Shaw as Alice Diamond, and Caoilfhionn Dunne as Anne Glover.

Adding further muscle to the cast are Daniel Mays as William ‘Punch’ Lewis, Susan Lynch as Jane Carr, and Adam Nagaitis as the Earl of Lonsdale.

Kissing the canvas

Helmed by Steven Knight, who serves as lead writer and executive producer, the writing team includes fresh voices like Ameir Brown, Insook Chappell, Harlan Davies, and Yasmin Joseph.

Directors Tinge Krishnan and Nick Murphy are joined by executive producers Ashley Walters and Coky Giedroyc.

Grounding the series in historical authenticity is historian and broadcaster Professor David Olusoga, who also lends his expertise as an executive producer.  

With its powerhouse creative team, fascinating cast, and a gripping blend of historical drama and intense action, A Thousand Blows promises to be a heavyweight addition to Disney+’s slate of original programming. 

Catch the premiere of A Thousand Blows on Disney+ February 21, 2025.