With the third 28 Years Later movie finally confirmed, fans are wondering whether Cillian Murphy will return and reprise his iconic role of Jim.
The zombie franchise returned this year with a new legacy sequel that became a critical and commercial success. A trilogy was planned, with a second film already shot and set for release this January 2026. However, Murphy was notably absent in the first film, and fans are now hoping that he will star in the upcoming third installment.
Is Cillian Murphy Starring in 28 Years Later Part 3?
Deadline recently confirmed that Sony is officially moving forward with the third 28 Years Later movie, following the successful fan reactions to the early screenings of The Bone Temple.
Not only that, Cillian Murphy is officially in talks to star in the installment and reprise his role of Jim from the original films. He already served as executive producer on the first two installments of the new trilogy.
This is exciting news for fans since they've been clamoring for Murphy to make a grand return in the franchise and headline an installment once again.
However, they could get an early glimpse of Murphy's return as Jim, since he is confirmed to have a cameo appearance in the ending of The Bone Temple, and his reintroduction will set up the events of the third movie.
There is no word yet on who will direct the third installment, but Danny Boyle has expressed interest to return in the helm. Alex Garland is currently writing the script. There is no production date set yet.
What to Expect in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
For now, fans can anticipate the release of 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple in theaters this coming January 16, 2026, during MLK weekend.
In the next installment, Dr. Kelson finds himself in a shocking new relationship, with consequences that could change the world as they know it, and Spike's encounter with Jimmy Crystal 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.
Nia DaCosta directed the film. The cast includes Ralph Fiennes, Jack O'Connell, Alfie Williams, Erin Kellyman, Chi Lewis-Parry, and Murphy.
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