I’ve got some excellent news and some not-so-great news regarding *28 Years Later*.

The excellent news: *28 Years Later* is a thrilling film, blending tension-filled horror, a profound examination of the enduring nature of toxic masculinity during the end times, and an optimistic view of what lies ahead. The not-so-great news: Oscar-winning actor Cillian Murphy, who played Jim in *28 Days Later*, is missing. However, he takes on the role of an executive producer, rejoining forces with director Danny Boyle and screenwriter Alex Garland for the first time since 2007’s *Sunshine*.

While Murphy’s absence may be a letdown, the movie’s outstanding performances by Alfie Williams, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, and Ralph Fiennes more than compensate for it. Some may find it surprising, especially after Sony Motion Pictures Group CEO Tom Rothman stated in a 2024 interview with *Deadline* that Murphy would make a comeback.

“Yes [he will be back], but in an unexpected way and in a manner that evolves, let me put it that way,” Rothman remarked.

After the debut of the film’s initial trailer, fans speculated that a gaunt infected character was Jim’s remains. However, *The Guardian* confirmed that the part was portrayed by art dealer Angus Neill.

In January 2025, *28 Years Later* producer Andrew Macdonald told *Empire* that Murphy would not be featured in the film.

“He is not in the first film, but I’m hoping there will be some Jim at some point,” Macdonald stated.

That “at some point” is approaching quickly, as Boyle verified Murphy’s return in the follow-up, *28 Years Later: The Bone Temple*. Directed by Nia DaCosta, the sequel has already been filmed and is scheduled for a January 16, 2026, release. It’s the second installment in a planned trilogy.

Regarding Murphy’s participation in *28 Years Later: The Bone Temple*, Boyle informed IGN: “He is in the second one. I shouldn’t reveal too much. I’ll get in trouble.”

Jim’s future remains uncertain. Will he meet young Spike (Williams) or gang leader Jimmy (Jack O’Connell)? More significantly, will I manage to keep track of the film’s various Jims and Jimmies? We’ll discover in 2026.

*28 Years Later* is currently in theaters.