The first episode of series 6 of Peaky Blinders paid tribute to Helen McCrory, who died in 2021 of breast cancer. 

In the first few moments of the episode, Tommy Shelby, played by Cillian Murphy, finds out the IRA has killed Polly Gray.

The cast of Peaky Blinders is seen lighting a fire and paying tribute to the character and actress.

A minutes' silence was given before Polly's son, Micheal, gave a speech to the camera. 

Twitter reacts to "heart wrenching" tribute

"Five minutes in and crying like a mess...RIP Helen McCrory," one Twitter user said.

Another said: "Really felt that minute silence for Polly aka Helen McCrory.. Well Done."

"RIP Helen McCrory, what an absolute legend, won't be the same without her."

"Wow. A wonderful and heart-wrenching tribute to the late, great Helen McCrory in the opener to the new series of Peaky Blinders."

"Great homage to Helen McCrory ! Very tastefully done and pure love in their eyes."

"Wondered how they were going to mark the passing of Helen McCrory … it was very poignant, lovely and so very sad. A nice tribute x"