Following his Oscar victory for his role in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, Cillian Murphy has not yet pursued major Hollywood blockbusters, instead choosing to star in smaller independent films. This approach marks a distinctive path for Murphy post Oscar, as he has focused on roles in movies like Small Things Like These and Steve, challenging the usual trajectory many actors take after such recognition.
In a recent conversation with Variety about Steve, now available on Netflix with positive reviews, Murphy was asked if studio projects sought him out following his Best Actor Oscar. He revealed that he was not immediately available for those offers due to commitments to his indie films.
“No, because I had these two other films straight away. I just wasn’t available, so it didn’t happen. Maybe some day it will. Or maybe it’s too late.”
— Cillian Murphy, Actor
Though Murphy’s recent movies have not matched Oppenheimer‘s blockbuster success, they have garnered critical acclaim. Notably, Small Things Like These boasts a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with Murphy’s acting earning considerable praise in both films.
The Current Phase of Cillian Murphy’s Career
Before winning his Oscar, Murphy enjoyed a steady acting career spanning two decades, featuring a blend of indie projects, popular TV series like Peaky Blinders, and major films often directed by Nolan. While he is not involved in the new project The Odyssey, Murphy has expressed relief over his absence from its cast.
Looking ahead, Murphy’s schedule includes returning to familiar roles and exploring new ventures. He is set to reprise Jim in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple and possibly a third installment in that series. In addition, Murphy will rejoin the Peaky Blinders universe with the Netflix film The Immortal Man.
Speculation surrounds Murphy’s involvement in other notable projects. Discussions are underway for him to co-star with Daniel Craig in an upcoming prison drama directed by Oscar-winner Damien Chazelle. There are also rumors about potential participation in Bond 26, though not in the lead role, as the franchise searches for a fresh face. Furthermore, Murphy’s name has been linked to the portrayal of Voldemort in the Harry Potter TV adaptation, a claim he denied in the same interview.
Assessing Cillian Murphy’s Career After His Oscar Victory
Despite the absence of blockbuster leads since his Oscar success, Murphy’s career remains strong and influential. His performances in well-reviewed independent films enhance his reputation as a leading actor in the industry. Moreover, he is widening his creative scope by taking on producer responsibilities for many of his current projects.
With a growing portfolio of significant upcoming projects and enduring fan interest in his work across film and television, Murphy is navigating his post-Oscar career path with a balance of artistic integrity and calculated opportunity. This trajectory suggests that he remains a prominent and dynamic figure in Hollywood’s evolving landscape.
