'Normal People', 'In The Absence'; ‘Peaky Blinders’ fame Cillian Murphy’s best- OTT dramas to watch

Cillian Murphy first grabbed hearts as the fierce Tommy Shelby in ‘Peaky Blinders’ but his talent runs deep across gripping stories. Picture settling into your couch, lights dimmed, ready for hours of tension and emotion. Here are five must-watch OTT dramas starring him. Each pulls you right in with his quiet intensity.

‘Normal People’ shifts to tender heartbreak in Ireland. Cillian Murphy shines as Niall, the kind friend orbiting the messy romance of Connell and Marianne. It’s that slow-burn ache of young love, stolen glances and what-ifs that linger long after. One season captures it all with real, messy feels. Runtime spans 12 episodes, 30 minutes apiece, totaling 6 hours. Available to stream on Hulu and Starz.

‘Les Misérables’ lets Cillian Murphy dig into Jean Valjean’s soul as the ex-con chasing grace in 1800s France. Forget the songs, this gritty take throbs with poverty, chases, and hard choices. You feel every step of his redemption road amid riots and regret. Six episodes run 60 minutes each, about 6 hours total. Available to stream on PBS Masterpiece and BBC iPlayer.

‘In the Absence’ packs a punch in minutes. Cillian Murphy narrates as a devastated dad during the 2014 Sewol Ferry crisis. His voice cuts through real footage and interviews, turning horror into quiet fury. It’s the kind of story that sticks, raw and unforgettable. Runtime is just 30 minutes. Available on YouTube and select platforms.

‘Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man’ brings Tommy Shelby back for World War II shadows. Cillian Murphy reprises the role in this movie-length tale of old ghosts and new fights, with familiar faces like Sophie Rundle. Expect bombs, betrayals, and that signature stare. Runtime clocks 2 hours 15 minutes. Available to stream on Netflix from March 20, 2026.