“A Thousand Blows” is the latest hit series from Steven Knight, creator of “Peaky Blinders” and “House of Guinness.” The period drama packs a punch: Inspired by real-life characters, the series is set amid the competitive boxing scene of 1880s London, and features Malachi Kirby (2016’s “Roots”), Erin Doherty (“The Crown”), Stephen Graham (“Adolescence”), and Francis Lovehall (“Champion”). The second season premieres Jan. 9, 2026, on Hulu and Disney+.
Here’s a breakdown of “A Thousand Blows” and what to know if you’re hoping to join the series.
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Set in the 1880s, Season 1 follows Hezekiah Moscow (Kirby) and Alec Munroe (Lovehall), immigrant best friends from Jamaica, who find themselves working in London’s illegal bare-knuckle boxing scene to make ends meet. Moscow’s success in the boxing ring attracts the attention of Mary Carr (Doherty), the gritty leader of an all-female crime ring called the Forty Elephants, and she enlists his help for her schemes. Meanwhile, reigning boxing champ Henry “Sugar” Goodson (Graham) is threatened by Moscow’s arrival and vows to take him down.
Season 2 picks up a year after the events of the first season and delves deeper into the characters’ struggles and rivalries. The series has garnered praise for its realistic portrayal of social classes, racism, sexism, and political themes prevalent in the late 19th century.
The main cast members are:
- Erin Doherty as Mary Carr
- Malachi Kirby as Hezekiah Moscow
- Francis Lovehall as Alec Munroe
- Morgan Hilaire as Esme Long
- Hannah Walters as Eliza Moody
- Caoilfhionn Dunne as Anne Glover
- Jemma Carlton as Belle Downer
- Nadia Albina as Verity Ross
- Tom Davis as Charlie Mitchell
- Stephen Graham as Henry “Sugar” Goodson
- James Nelson-Joyce as Edward “Treacle” Goodson
- Jason Tobin as Mr. Lao
- Daniel Mays as William “Punch” Lewis
- Darci Shaw as Alice Diamond
- Gary Lewis as Jack Mac
- Susan Lynch as Jane Carr
- Robert Glenister as Indigo Jeremy
Shaheen Baig (“Peaky Blinders,” “Adolescence”) is the CD for Seasons 1 and 2. If you aren’t already working with professional representation, signing with an acting agent is a good way to increase your chances of auditioning for CDs like Baig.
A third season hasn’t been announced, but we’ll share updates right here if anything changes. “A Thousand Blows” was filmed in London, so head to our directory of London casting calls in the meantime. Check out these other opportunities, too:
If you’re looking to add even more credits to your acting résumé, these guides list additional projects that are currently seeking talent:
And remember to use our tips to help you land your next role: