In the upcoming sequel 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, actor Cillian Murphy makes a brief yet pivotal return as Jim, reprising the character he originally portrayed in 2002’s 28 Days Later. The film, directed by Nia DaCosta and written by Alex Garland, is set to hit theaters on January 16, 2026, and continues the harrowing story initiated over two decades ago. This return by Murphy, who also serves as an executive producer on the project, provides a crucial link to filmmaker Danny Boyle’s planned trilogy conclusion, revealing new threats beyond the infected.
Plot Developments and Jim’s Role
The Bone Temple opens where the previous film left off, revisiting the cottage seen at the end of 28 Days Later. Jim, now a family man, is seen helping his daughter prepare for a history exam. Their quiet moment is shattered by the arrival of Spike, played by Alfie Williams, and Kelly, portrayed by Erin Kellyman, both being pursued by a horde of infected creatures. Armed and ready, Jim steps in to assist them, setting up the future interaction between these new characters and himself in the third movie.
The film’s conclusion, though lacking a post-credits scene, retains the iconic theme
“In the House – In a Heartbeat”
from the original movie, underscoring the connection to the intense atmosphere of the franchise. Murphy’s brief screen time anticipates a larger role in Boyle’s trilogy finale, promising fans a familiar yet evolved presence of Jim amidst escalating dangers.
Insights from Cillian Murphy and the Sequel’s Context
Last September, Murphy addressed rumors about his return as a zombified figure, mentioning that his son had brought the speculation to his attention. He remarked,
“That’s great, people think I look like a zombie cadaver. It’s very flattering.”
Cillian Murphy, Actor
Clarifying his actual involvement in The Bone Temple, Murphy stated,
“only in it for a little bit,”
and encouraged audiences to watch the sequel, saying,
“everyone’s got to go and see the second one, it’s really, really good.”
Cillian Murphy, Actor
This cameo role sets the stage for an expanded part in the forthcoming third installment, which Sony Pictures has officially greenlit since this interview.
New Characters and Emerging Threats in The Bone Temple
The sequel not only reconnects with familiar faces but also introduces new complexities and dangers. Dr. Kelson, played by Ralph Fiennes, grapples with a surprising relationship that holds world-altering risks. Spike’s terrifying encounter with Jimmy Crystal, depicted by Jack O’Connell, adds a fresh layer of conflict. The film highlights a chilling evolution: among survivors, human cruelty may eclipse the threat posed by the infected themselves.
“In a continuation of the epic story, Dr. Kelson (Ralph Fiennes) finds himself in a shocking new relationship, with consequences that could change the world as they know it. Spike’s (Alfie Williams) encounter with Jimmy Crystal (Jack O’Connell) becomes a nightmare he can’t escape. In the world of The Bone Temple, the infected are no longer the greatest threat to survival – the inhumanity of the survivors can be stranger and more terrifying.”
— Official Statement
Alongside Murphy, the cast includes Erin Kellyman and Chi Lewis-Parry, with the production team led by Andrew Macdonald, Peter Rice, Bernard Bellew, Danny Boyle, and Alex Garland.
Looking Ahead: The Trilogy’s Final Chapter
Cillian Murphy’s return as Jim, while brief in The Bone Temple, deepens the narrative continuity needed for the trilogy’s finale, which promises to escalate the ongoing battle for survival beyond the infected. The evolving story examines not just biological horror but the psychological and moral decay within survivors, adding tension to an already intense saga. Fans of the franchise can anticipate a gripping conclusion that ties together longstanding threads and new elements introduced in this second installment.
