For more than a decade, Sophie Rundle has quietly shaped one of the most compelling characters in modern British television. Since the debut of Peaky Blinders in 2013, her portrayal of Ada Shelby—later Ada Thorne—has evolved dramatically, transforming from the outspoken younger sister of the Shelby family into a sharp political strategist capable of navigating power on her own terms. Now, with the arrival of the highly anticipated 2026 continuation of the story, fans are finally seeing the next stage of that transformation.
Early teasers for the new film, The Immortal Man, have ignited excitement among viewers who long wondered what role Ada would play in the future of the Shelby empire. One line in particular has sparked intense discussion online: “She just took the lead now.” For longtime followers of the franchise, the statement appears to confirm a shift many suspected was coming—a transition of authority within the Shelby family.
From the very beginning, Ada stood apart from her brothers. While figures like Tommy and Arthur built their reputation through violence and criminal ambition, Ada represented a different voice within the family. She was politically aware, intellectually curious, and often openly critical of the darker aspects of the Shelby operations. In the early seasons, her rebellious nature and involvement with socialist circles positioned her as both an outsider and a moral counterweight to the family’s growing criminal influence.
Yet Ada’s story never remained static. Over the years, the character matured alongside the show’s increasingly complex political backdrop. As the Shelby organization expanded its reach beyond the streets of Birmingham, Ada gradually moved closer to the center of power. Her understanding of politics, diplomacy, and public perception became invaluable as the family began transitioning from underground crime into legitimate business and political influence.
Sophie Rundle’s performance played a crucial role in that transformation. Rather than portraying Ada as simply a rebellious sibling, Rundle layered the character with intelligence, vulnerability, and quiet determination. As the seasons progressed, Ada’s presence became more commanding. Scenes that once positioned her as an observer began to show her influencing major decisions behind the scenes.
By the time the original series concluded, many fans believed Ada was uniquely positioned to guide the Shelby legacy into a new era. Unlike her brothers, she possessed both the political awareness and emotional resilience needed to navigate a rapidly changing world. That potential appears to take center stage in The Immortal Man, which shifts the story into the uncertain climate of the 1940s.
The historical setting brings new challenges for the Shelby family. The shifting political landscape of post-war Europe demands strategic thinking rather than brute force. Early glimpses of the film suggest that Ada Thorne steps confidently into this environment, operating not merely as a family member but as a leader capable of influencing the organization’s direction.
Rundle’s portrayal reflects that evolution. Known for her work in acclaimed dramas such as Gentleman Jack, the actress has developed a reputation for bringing depth and nuance to complex roles. In the new film, she reportedly brings a renewed gravity to Ada, emphasizing the character’s transformation from outspoken activist to strategic architect of the Shelby future.
For audiences who watched Ada grow from a defiant young woman into a calculating political figure, the shift feels both natural and powerful. Rather than remaining in the shadow of Tommy Shelby’s formidable presence, Ada now appears ready to carry the family legacy forward in her own way.
If the early glimpses are any indication, The Immortal Man may finally answer the long-standing question about who truly safeguards the Shelby name. The answer may not lie with the brother who built the empire, but with the sister who learned how to sustain it. Through Sophie Rundle’s commanding return, Ada Thorne emerges not as a supporting character—but as the strategic heart ensuring the Shelby dynasty survives its most dangerous transition yet.