Danny Boyle confirms Cillian Murphy’s significant return in 28 Years Later, the long-awaited new installment of the zombie franchise set to hit theaters June 20. The filmmaker revealed Murphy’s involvement in the third movie, sparking fresh excitement around the fate of original protagonist Jim nearly two decades after the series debuted.
Boyle Describes Murphy’s Role as “Very Clever”
As speculation has swirled over Cillian Murphy’s return to the franchise, Boyle addressed questions during a recent interview with IndieWire. He emphasized that Murphy would play an important part in the upcoming film, although he remained tight-lipped about details. According to Boyle, the part written for Jim in 28 Years Later 3 will be “clever” and make “very smart use” of his character, but specifics remain closely guarded until closer to the film’s release.
While early rumors debated whether Jim would appear at all—especially after a producer, Andrew MacDonald, denied Murphy was one of the zombies glimpsed in the latest trailer—a report by Variety fueled the conversation by suggesting otherwise. Still, for those eager for Murphy’s return, Boyle’s assurances provide concrete hope, alongside the fact that Murphy has already seen how his character is introduced in the storyline.
Jim’s Introduction in The Bone Temple Raises Expectations
Murphy’s reentry as Jim is set in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, directed by Nia DaCosta, which will serve as the first sequel in a planned trilogy. Boyle, having previewed an early cut of The Bone Temple, shared an enthusiastic reaction to the film, stating, “Oh, yeah, that’s pretty good.” —Danny Boyle, Director
This statement further heightens anticipation for how the world’s unluckiest coma patient, Jim, will reappear after 28 years of post-apocalyptic survival. While the character’s physical and mental condition remains a mystery after enduring a zombie-ravaged world, fans can look forward to a satisfying and creative introduction in the upcoming sequence.
What to Expect from 28 Years Later 3
Although the exact details of Jim’s role have not been made public, Boyle confirmed that Murphy would reprise his most iconic character, one that originally made him a star in 2002’s 28 Days Later. The new film will explore the ongoing turmoil in a devastated world, continuing the saga that has kept fans captivated for years. With The Bone Temple marking the first new chapter, hopes remain high for a strong follow-up movie and a gripping conclusion to the trilogy if Boyle secures the necessary resources for production.
Audiences can expect more updates as the June release date approaches and as information surfaces about the trilogy’s direction and Murphy’s evolution in the storyline. The next chapter of this zombie universe is set to offer both nostalgia and new twists for longtime followers and newcomers alike.
