Cillian Murphy has officially confirmed his role as Jim in the forthcoming film 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, bridging the gap between the original works of Danny Boyle and Alex Garland. This announcement clarifies Murphy’s involvement in the evolving 28 Days Later franchise, where his return had only been speculated until now. Fans had been unsettled after an early trailer for 28 Years Later featured a gaunt Infected resembling Murphy, only to find out he was not part of that film.
Murphy’s confirmation came during a Deadline interview, where he also hinted at his central role in a potential third installment of the trilogy, although he emphasized that the green light for this film depends on the success of The Bone Temple at the box office.
Deadline: This is totally aside, but you are definitely in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, right?
Cilian Murphy: I think Danny (Boyle) has already confirmed that. So I can confirm.
Deadline: And you would be sort of the focal point of the third movie. If the third movie gets green lighted.
Cillian Murphy: Exactly, so in order for that to happen, every single person has to go and see Bone Temple.
Implications of Murphy’s Return for the Trilogy’s Future
Murphy’s acknowledgment solidifies expectations that Jim will be the only returning character from the original films to appear in the new 28 Years Later sequel. This confirms his role is significant, not only in The Bone Temple but potentially in the next chapter of the story.
Director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland have both indicated that the continuation of the series hinges on the commercial performance of The Bone Temple. Boyle explicitly noted the need to secure funding for the third film, which means audience reception and box office numbers will be critical to the franchise’s trajectory.
Potential Story Directions and Character Development
The central focus on Cillian Murphy in the third film suggests a narrative shift that connects The Bone Temple to its sequel. The last installment introduced Aaron Taylor-Johnson’s character Jamie and his search for his missing son Spike, played by Alfie Williams, indicating the family drama may continue to unfold.
It is likely that The Bone Temple will advance Jamie’s storyline, possibly concluding his arc, while elevating Jim to a mentor role in the third film—a role Jamie occupied earlier in the series. This handoff could mark a thematic and character-driven evolution within the franchise’s universe.
The recurring presence of the Jimmies, who are infected manifestations associated with Jim, also remains an element of interest in how they interact with the returning characters. Full details on their involvement will only be clear after the film’s release.
Fans can expect 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple to premiere in theaters on January 16, 2026, setting the stage for further developments in this intense and somber post-apocalyptic world.
