Actor Cillian Murphy shared his reaction to not being part of Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film, The Odyssey, which is slated for release on July 17, 2026. The film, an adaptation of Homer’s ancient Greek epic, features a prominent cast including many of Nolan’s longtime collaborators, and Murphy expressed a mix of relief and excitement about watching the project unfold.
The Odyssey will be an IMAX period epic that follows the Greek hero Odysseus on his perilous ten-year return home following the Trojan War. Alongside familiar names like Matt Damon, Robert Pattinson, Anne Hathaway, and others, newcomers such as Tom Holland, Zendaya, and Charlize Theron have joined the roster.
The Longstanding Partnership Between Murphy and Nolan
Cillian Murphy’s career has been closely intertwined with Christopher Nolan’s work, having appeared in six of the director’s films. Nolan first noticed Murphy’s potential after seeing a photograph from Danny Boyle’s 28 Days Later and invited him to audition for Batman Begins. Though he did not land the role of Batman, Murphy was cast as the Scarecrow, beginning a productive collaboration.
Murphy went on to star in all three movies of Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy and later shared the screen with Leonardo DiCaprio in Nolan’s Inception. He also featured prominently in Dunkirk (2017) and took on the title role in Nolan’s 2023 biopic Oppenheimer. Over the years, Murphy has openly expressed his admiration for Nolan’s filmmaking, calling himself a fan and receiving praise from Nolan as one of the most talented actors of his generation.
During the Toronto International Film Festival, Murphy spoke positively about Nolan and indicated he looks forward to The Odyssey without feeling the pressure of being cast in it.
Why Murphy Is Relieved to Miss Out on The Odyssey
In a 2024 interview with Jimmy Kimmel, Murphy explained why he is content not to participate in The Odyssey‘s cast. He emphasized that this allows him to
“go to the cinema and really enjoy it”
without the distraction of seeing himself on screen, something he prefers to avoid.
Drawing on his experience watching Interstellar, which he greatly enjoyed, Murphy hopes to have the same relaxing experience with Nolan’s next epic, appreciating it as an audience member rather than an actor.
Though a large portion of the cast has now been announced, many specific plot details about The Odyssey remain confidential, building anticipation for the film’s release.
Confirmed Cast and Storyline Details of The Odyssey
The ensemble includes Matt Damon in the lead role as Odysseus, who embarks on a hazardous journey encountering legendary figures such as Polyphemus, the Sirens, and the sorceress Circe. The story culminates in Odysseus’s long-awaited reunion with his wife, Penelope.
Other notable actors confirmed are Tom Holland, Zendaya, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Benny Safdie, Bill Irwin, Himesh Patel, Samantha Morton, and Charlize Theron, combining to form a star-studded lineup that continues Nolan’s tradition of working with talented collaborators.
The film’s adaptation of Homer’s epic poem promises a vivid portrayal of adventure, myth, and human endurance, packaged for a 2026 IMAX release.
The Significance of Murphy’s Absence and Future Expectations
Though Cillian Murphy’s absence from The Odyssey’s cast marks a change in Nolan’s familiar ensemble, it highlights the actor’s thoughtful approach to his work and viewing experience. His willingness to cheer on the film as a spectator underscores his respect for Nolan’s vision and his own need for creative space.
For audiences, Murphy’s comments build anticipation for The Odyssey, suggesting it will be a cinematic event to watch closely. As Nolan continues to adapt grand narratives with impressive casts, the excitement around this film’s mythic journey grows, setting the stage for an eagerly awaited summer release in 2026.
