Danny Boyle, acclaimed director of the original 28 Days Later, has officially detailed plans for the much-anticipated 28 Years Later trilogy, highlighting the Cillian Murphy return in 28 Years Later trilogy. Fans can expect to see Murphy reprise his iconic role as Jim, though not in the first installment but in the later films.
Boyle’s remarks come after speculation surrounding Murphy’s involvement. Although rumors suggested the actor would not appear in the upcoming sequel, Boyle clarified during an IGN interview that Murphy will feature in the trilogy’s subsequent films. The second movie, titled 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, will mark Murphy’s on-screen return, with a possible third film in discussion depending on the performance of the first two entries.
New Characters and Trilogy Structure Set the Stage
The trilogy’s narrative will connect across all three films, introducing new faces alongside familiar ones. Alfie Williams steps into a pivotal role as Spike, a 12-year-old who becomes central to the unfolding story. Boyle explained,
“He will run right way through the films,”
—Danny Boyle, Director. This continuity aims to weave the characters’ journeys into a larger arc, providing both new developments and nostalgia for longtime fans.
Boyle also revealed a logistical and creative approach to production, stating,
“We’ve shot the first two back-to-back, and that was for logistical reasons, actor availability reasons, and for story reasons as well. They’re literally continuous.”
—Danny Boyle, Director. This method ensures a seamless transition between the first two chapters and maintains narrative intensity.
Cillian Murphy’s Role and Conditions for the Trilogy’s Final Chapter
While Cillian Murphy has been confirmed as an executive producer for the entire trilogy, his on-screen presence will only begin with The Bone Temple. The director kept specific details under wraps, but teased Murphy’s return for both the second and, potentially, a third film if funding and reception allow. Boyle commented on the uncertainty surrounding the trilogy’s conclusion:
“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,”
—Danny Boyle, Director, and emphasized commitment from all involved by adding,
“Everybody’s standing by for that, really. Including Cillian.”
—Danny Boyle, Director.
The return of Jim remains shrouded in secrecy, with Boyle stating,
“He is in the second one,”
—Danny Boyle, Director, while also cautioning,
“I shouldn’t give away too much. I’ll get killed,”
—Danny Boyle, Director. Clearly, the team is eager to surprise audiences with Murphy’s renewed involvement, which is a significant draw for followers of both the original film and the rising star’s career.
Release Dates, Directors, and What Comes Next
The first part of the trilogy, 28 Years Later, will debut in cinemas on 20 June 2025. The follow-up, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, is scheduled for release on 16 January 2026, this time with Nia DaCosta at the helm as director. This change signals both continuity and fresh vision for the project, promising diverse storytelling strands as the trilogy progresses.
As anticipation grows for the Cillian Murphy return in 28 Years Later trilogy, fans and newcomers alike are set to revisit the haunting world of Jim and his companions. While details regarding Murphy’s precise role are guarded, his involvement ensures both emotional stakes and ties to the franchise’s origins. The ultimate fate of the trilogy’s third film depends on the reception and success of the first two, leaving the future of the apocalyptic saga in the hands of audiences and producers alike.
