27 February 2024 , 18:15
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Peaky Blinders legend Paul Anderson has responded to speculation about his appearance.
The actor who is known for playing Arthur Shelby Jr in the BBC drama was recently seen looking under the weather as he left a bakery in north London. Social media users were quick to make comments on his appearance but the 46-year-old has since responded and told fans that he was ill at the time.
It comes weeks after Paul pleaded guilty to charges after he was found to have the Class A drug, crack cocaine, Class B amphetamines and two Class C prescription substances in his possession. He told fans: "Back to business and back on set today! Thank you for all your love and concern to everybody. I was and have been absolutely flattened by the flu #nofilter," as he was seen posing in the back of a car while taking a selfie.
Paul has responded to speculation bout his appearance (SplashNews.com)
He looked extremely different to how fans normally recognise him (SplashNews.com)Last week, Paul was seen wrapping up in a fleece and leopard print hoodie, paired with a pair of jeans and trainers while grabbing lunch from a local bakery. The actor looked worlds away from his usual self during his outing as he appeared to be unwell.
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.
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The actor has now addressed his appearance and stated that he had been unwell (SplashNews.com)
He recently pleaded guilty to being in possession of a Class A drug (SplashNews.com)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.
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 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 frank@talktofrank.com, message 82111 or call 0300 123 6600) or the NHS has information about getting help.