Actors sometimes take souvenirs from set. Most people bring back hats, scripts, or questionable taste in souvenirs. Cillian Murphy brought back a prop bullet labeled "Tommy" and learned that airport security does not appreciate method acting in your carry-on.
How the prop bullet became a real-life problem
Murphy was chatting with co-star Rebecca Ferguson while promoting the Peaky Blinders movie The Immortal Man when he admitted he tried to slip a fake bullet through airport security. According to Murphy, the item set off a bit of chaos.
He explained the shell had "Tommy" written on it. When security found it at the bottom of his bag, officers reacted strongly. Murphy recalled men with guns approaching and the usual tense questions you hope to avoid before a flight.
It was a prop, they returned it, and the plane left on time
Murphy said he apologized and told security it was not a live round but a prop shell. After a short exchange the item was handed back, he boarded the plane, and that was the end of the incident. Ferguson’s response was a blunt reminder that celebrity status can change how these moments play out.
Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man is currently in cinemas and is scheduled to appear on streaming soon. Murphy and other cast members have been doing publicity for the film, and this airport story came up during those interviews.
So yes, takeaway: a plastic or inert prop can be perfectly labeled "Tommy" and still cause a proper security scene at an airport. Murphy walked away without charges and with his flight intact.
