Peaky Blinders Icon Stephanie Collie Passes Away at 61, Tributes Pour In
Stephanie Collie, the visionary costume designer behind the iconic look of the hit TV show Peaky Blinders, has tragically passed away at the age of 61. Her contribution to the series, particularly in crafting the distinctive and unforgettable style of the characters, has left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. Collie battled terminal cancer in the last six months of her life, succumbing to the illness a year after her husband, Hubert Taczanowski, also a key figure in the entertainment industry. The news of her passing has prompted an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from colleagues and celebrities alike, including Peaky Blinders’ lead actor, Cillian Murphy, who described Collie as a “ferocious talent” and credited her with creating the series’ iconic aesthetic. The official Instagram account of Peaky Blinders also honoured Collie, acknowledging her profound influence on the show’s visual identity and expressing condolences to her family.
Hollywood stars such as Samuel L. Jackson and Ryan Reynolds joined in commemorating Collie’s legacy, with Jackson lauding her as a source of inspiration for his performances and Reynolds praising her not only for her design prowess but also for her sharp wit and humour. Collie’s impact extended beyond Peaky Blinders, as her innovative approach to costume design reshaped men’s fashion trends, with elements of her work reverberating from the screen to the streets. Drawing on her background in fashion and her early experiences at the BBC and with renowned figures like Kenneth Branagh, Collie infused authenticity and creativity into every project she undertook. Her meticulous attention to detail and historical research, particularly in evoking the spirit of the real-life Peaky Blinders gang, set a new standard for period dramas and character-driven narratives.
Born in Cheshire and educated at Cheltenham Arts College and the London College of Fashion, Collie’s journey in the industry reflected a deep passion for storytelling through clothing. Her collaboration with Guy Ritchie on “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels” marked a transition to film and further showcased her versatility and ingenuity. The accolades she received, including a Royal Television Society Award for Best Costume Designer, underscored her talent and dedication to her craft. Collie’s ability to blend historical accuracy with contemporary flair resonated with audiences and critics alike, shaping the visual landscape of the projects she worked on. Her sudden departure leaves a void in the creative community, but her legacy will endure through the timeless designs she brought to life on screen.
As colleagues, friends, and admirers mourn Collie’s passing, they also celebrate the remarkable legacy she leaves behind. The impact of her work on Peaky Blinders and beyond serves as a testament to her artistry and vision, inspiring a new generation of designers and storytellers to push boundaries and challenge conventions. Collie’s contributions to the entertainment industry will be remembered not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for the depth of character and narrative they brought to life. In a world where storytelling is as much visual as it is verbal, Stephanie Collie’s influence remains a guiding light for those seeking to merge history, culture, and creativity into breathtaking on-screen experiences.