'28 Years Later' trailer sparks speculation of Cillian Murphy’s return

The trailer for 28 Years Later, the highly anticipated sequel from Danny Boyle and Alex Garland, has dropped, leaving fans speculating about the return of a key character from the original film.

Set nearly two decades after 28 Days Later, the teaser unveils a post-apocalyptic world devastated by the Rage Virus. Aaron Taylor-Johnson roams the green fields of England wielding a bow and arrow, as the haunting backdrop is accompanied by Taylor Holmes’ reading of Rudyard Kipling’s war poem Boots.

The biggest intrigue comes from a brief scene in which a zombified figure resembling Cillian Murphy’s character, Jim, looms menacingly over Jodie Comer’s character. While there’s no official confirmation of Murphy reprising his role, fans have been quick to speculate about his involvement. Murphy, who starred in 28 Days Later, is listed as an executive producer for the sequel but was absent from the second film, 28 Weeks Later.

“Time didn’t heal anything,” teases the tagline for 28 Years Later, which serves as the first installment of a planned trilogy. Franchise newcomers include Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ralph Fiennes, Erin Kellyman, and Jack O’Connell.

Produced by Columbia Pictures in collaboration with BFI, DNA Films, and Decibel Films, the movie is slated for a June 20, 2025, release. Andrew MacDonald, Peter Rice, Alex Garland, and Danny Boyle helm the production team, with Boyle returning as director.

While fans debate the identity of the zombie figure, the trailer has undoubtedly reignited excitement for the next chapter in this acclaimed apocalyptic series.