Tom Hardy’s enigmatic presence on screen has captivated audiences worldwide, but behind the intensity of his performances lies a creative partnership that is deeply personal and profoundly impactful. Taboo, the dark, atmospheric period drama that premiered on BBC One in 2017, is not just a vehicle for Hardy’s talents—it is the product of a unique father-son collaboration that reshaped both their lives and careers.

The series, set in 1814, follows James Keziah Delaney (Tom Hardy) as he returns from Africa to London to reclaim his late father’s shipping empire, only to confront a web of corruption, conspiracy, and haunting secrets. Yet, the story of Taboo extends far beyond its shadowy narrative. At its heart is the creative fusion of Tom and his father, Edward “Chips” Hardy, a seasoned writer whose literary and theatrical background provided the series with its rich emotional core.

The genesis of Taboo traces back nearly a decade before the show’s debut, originating from a quiet family conversation. Tom Hardy, then already recognized for his intense roles in Inception and The Dark Knight Rises, shared with his father a rough concept: a haunted antihero navigating the grim underbelly of early 19th-century London. Chips Hardy, with his knack for narrative structure, transformed that kernel of an idea into a full treatment. Initially envisioned in the 1860s, the timeline was later refined to 1814 by co-creator Steven Knight, adding historical depth to the brooding tale.

Chips Hardy’s role evolved beyond co-writer to become a creative anchor, serving as consulting producer and narrative architect. His seasoned experience helped weave together a world where myth, history, and raw human emotion collide. Meanwhile, Tom Hardy embraced multiple roles—executive producer, co-creator, and lead actor—exercising creative control from script to screen.

Their joint production company, Hardy, Son & Baker, symbolized their artistic partnership and mutual trust. This collaboration, far from straining their relationship, brought them closer, proving that creativity can strengthen family bonds. Both have spoken in interviews about how working together deepened their connection, blending personal history with professional ambition.

For Tom Hardy, Taboo was a rare opportunity to shape a complex character from inception, aligning perfectly with his penchant for playing tortured, intense figures. Chips Hardy’s literary expertise provided the emotional grounding necessary to elevate James Delaney from a mere antihero to a mythic, layered character.

Critically acclaimed for its atmospheric storytelling and Hardy’s compelling performance, Taboo quickly gained a cult following. Though only one season aired, it was renewed almost immediately, and as of 2025, fans eagerly await news of the second installment, with development rumors still circulating.

Chips Hardy’s influence, drawn from his own novels like Each Day A Small Victory, enriched the show’s poetic and brooding tone. His subtle narrative guidance balanced Tom’s visceral instincts, creating a series that resonates both emotionally and visually.

Ultimately, Taboo stands as more than a drama about vengeance and power—it is a testament to legacy and the creative stories passed between father and son. For Tom Hardy, whose characters often wrestle with inner demons, it’s fitting that one of his most personal and powerful projects was born not in a Hollywood boardroom, but across a kitchen table with his father.