After much speculation about Cillian Murphy roles in 28 Years Later sequels, director Danny Boyle has clarified that while Murphy will not appear in the initial 28 Years Later film, he is set to play significant roles in the following two sequels. These details were revealed in a recent interview, shedding light on the actor’s involvement and the future of the franchise.
Cillian Murphy Returns—but Not in the First Film
Director Danny Boyle shared in an interview with IGN that Cillian Murphy is not a part of 28 Years Later, which is the trilogy’s opening film. However, Murphy will join the cast for the second movie, titled 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, scheduled to release on January 16, 2026. Boyle was careful not to disclose the exact size or nature of Murphy’s part, mentioning that such details are intentionally being kept under wraps to maintain anticipation.
Additionally, Boyle confirmed Murphy’s continued involvement, stating that the actor is also slated to appear in the third installment of the series. The fate of this currently untitled film, however, remains undecided as its production is tied to the commercial performance of the first two movies in the planned trilogy.
“There’s a coda… it’s not a coda, it’s the epilogue or an end theme at the end of the first film [28 Years Later] that gives you a handover to the second film,”
said Boyle.
“Although each story completes itself, there’s a handover section to the next film as well. So it’s very ambitious. We haven’t got the money for the third one yet. It will depend how the first one does, I guess. But hopefully if we do ok, they’ll give us the go-ahead for the money and for the third one. Everybody’s standing by for that, really. Including Cillian.”
—Danny Boyle, Director
The Trilogy’s Storyline and Production Details Unveiled
The upcoming trilogy weaves its narrative around Spike, played by Alfie Williams in 28 Years Later, offering a storyline that Boyle describes as interconnected and ambitious. The first and second films were shot back-to-back, a decision made to accommodate the schedules of the film’s diverse cast and to ensure narrative continuity between entries.
Boyle expressed that he would welcome an opportunity to direct the third film if it receives the necessary backing. He remains cautious about making future commitments, emphasizing that the studio’s decision will primarily rest on the audience’s response to the first film, set for release on June 20, 2025. The director hinted that the projects following the first entry will only move forward if the box office results and overall reception meet expectations.
What Lies Ahead for Cillian Murphy and the Franchise
The announcement marks a significant moment for fans eager to see Cillian Murphy return to the world of 28 Years Later, even if his presence will not grace the first installment. As anticipation builds for both sequels, the studio and cast, including Murphy and fellow actor Alfie Williams, await the outcome of the first film. Should 28 Years Later find success upon its debut, audiences can look forward to the continuation of its story and more key roles for Murphy in the highly-anticipated sequels.
