Jude Bellingham shows support for Paul Anderson amid personal struggles
England and Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham has sent a touching message of support to Peaky Blinders actor Paul Anderson, who has been going through a difficult period in his life, reports BritPanorama.
The Birmingham-born footballer gifted Anderson a signed Real Madrid shirt with a lovely inscription that read: “From one Peaky Blinder to another. Lots of love and admiration. Best wishes, Jude.”
Bellingham even used Anderson’s nickname “Boycey” when addressing the 47-year-old star, who became famous worldwide playing the troubled gangster Arthur Shelby. Anderson shared the gesture on Instagram, responding warmly: “Jude Bellingham you absolute blinder. Keep right on.”
The actor made his first public appearance in quite some time over the weekend, turning up at a meet and greet in Essex. Friends say they’re delighted with his progress, with one telling reporters: “We’re all proud of Paul, he’s trying to turn his life around.”
Anderson was spotted looking healthier when he appeared at 80s Casual Classics, a clothing shop in The Liberty Shopping Centre in Romford on Sunday. Channelling his character from the 2009 film The Firm, he posed for photos wearing a retro Sergio Tacchini Masters tracksuit and happily met with fans outside the shopping centre for an impromptu photoshoot.
Anderson’s troubles began on Boxing Day 2023 when he was discovered with crack cocaine and amphetamines in a pub toilet, with customers reportedly smelling drug fumes. He admitted to possessing the Class A substances on 25 January 2024, and court documents revealed that a subsequent drugs test detected cocaine and opiates in his blood. The actor was also accused of missing a drug rehabilitation assessment with a social worker.
Adding to his difficulties, Anderson was convicted at Bexley Magistrates Court on 6 March 2025 for riding a BMW motorbike without insurance in north London. He didn’t attend the hearing. One friend described watching his struggles as “heartbreaking.”
Anderson is understood to have missed out on appearing in the upcoming Peaky Blinders film, which is set for release in spring, following the chaos in his personal life. While nothing has been officially confirmed, he is not expected to reprise his role as Arthur Shelby alongside Cillian Murphy. With acting opportunities drying up, the star has been earning money through £150 personalised Cameo videos and paid appearances at events.
Bellingham, who grew up in Stourbridge near Birmingham and began his career at Birmingham City, has shown his own love for Peaky Blinders. Back in April, he arrived at Gatwick Airport sporting a flat cap and sleek black outfit inspired by the BBC series.
In an era where public figures frequently grapple with personal struggles under relentless scrutiny, the bond evolving between Bellingham and Anderson serves as a refreshing reminder of solidarity amid the spotlight’s glare.
