British actor Paul Anderson, best known for his role as Arthur Shelby in the acclaimed BBC/Netflix series Peaky Blinders, will be a special guest at this year’s Cyprus Comic Con.

Arthur Shelby, the eldest Shelby brother, is a complex and unpredictable character, capable of incredible violence. His struggles with severe mental health issues, rooted in his experiences during the First World War, and his role as the family’s enforcer, add depth to his conflicted nature.

One of Arthur’s memorable lines is, “There is good in my heart, but these hands belong to the devil.”

Anderson’s portrayal has been widely praised for capturing Arthur’s emotional range, from intense rage and violence to vulnerability and despair.

Beyond Peaky Blinders, Anderson has appeared in several notable films including The Firm (2009), Legend (2015), The Revenant (2015), Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows, and the war drama ’71. He has also featured in In the Heart of the Sea and Brimstone.

Visitors to the Comic Con, taking place at the State Fair Grounds in Nicosia on October 4 and 5, will have the chance to meet Paul Anderson in person. Fans can purchase €20 tokens, which can be exchanged for a photo or autograph with the actor; additional tokens can be bought to enjoy both experiences. Anderson will also host Q&A panels on the Hall A Main Stage at 14:00 on both days.

The event promises a vibrant programme, featuring the largest special guest lineup in Cyprus Comic Con history, thrilling live performances including the all-female Japanese J-Rock band ЯeaL, the local music band FUSE, wrestling matches, cosplay competitions, gaming tournaments, various themed “zones”, and a film festival. There will be something for all ages, with plenty of food, shopping, and entertainment throughout the weekend.