Peaky Blinders star found with crack cocaine in pub had 'slipped into character'

27 January 2024 , 20:51

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Paul Anderson pleaded guilty to the charges

Peaky Blinders actor Paul Anderson admitted possession of crack cocaine after a pub session.

The actor who is known for playing Arthur Shelby on the BBC drama was caught when police were called to a pub in Camden, north London on December 26. Anderson, 48, later appeared before Highbury Magistrates' Court on January 25.

Anderson accepted liability and admitted he had the class A drug, class B amphetamines and two class C prescription substances on his possession. He had crack cocaine, amphetamines, Diazepam, and Pregabalin on him at the time. But his actions could have a "significant impact" on his future with any Peaky Blinders projects, according to sources.

Paul spoke only to confirm his name, address and enter his guilty plea (BBC/Caryn Mandabach/Robert Viglasky)

A punter in the north London boozer smelt the crack cocaine fumes from the disabled toilet and alerted the manager, who called The Metropolitan Police. They subsequently found an "intoxicated" Paul, a young man and a 17-month-old child, the court heard. Anderson was taken to a police station where police officers found the drugs, said prosecutor Kevin Kendridge.

During an interview, he answered "no comment" but tested positive for opiates and cocaine, but not crack cocaine, the court heard. Anderson's defence lawyer claimed he couldn't resist slipping into his gangster character who fans will know takes drugs on the BBC show.

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Moira MacFarlane said: "He is often recognised and does his best to please fans of the show by slipping into character. He was recognised that Boxing Day and tried to play up for these people. And because of the lifestyle he leads people often give him inducements. He found himself in an unfortunate position and should have had the strength to say no."

Anderson spoke only to confirm his name, and address and to enter his guilty plea. He was fined a total of £1,345. A spokesperson for The Met said: "Police were called at about 18:30hrs on 26 December 2023 to West End Lane in Camden. Officers attended and arrested a man.

"Paul Anderson, 48, of West Hampstead, was later charged with two counts of possession of Class A drugs and two counts of possession of Class C drugs. He appeared at Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court on Thursday 25 January." Meanwhile, a source told MailOnline that the incident could have a detrimental impact on his career with Peaky Blinders.

They said his conviction could make it difficult to "reprise the role" despite Arthur being a "pivotal character" – although the third option would be "to cancel the entire thing."

Frank offers confidential advice about drugs and addiction (email [email protected], message 82111 or call 0300 123 6600) or the NHS has information about getting help.

Daniel Bird