Director Danny Boyle Addresses Cillian Murphy & Naomie Harris’s Absence from ’28 Years Later’

As anticipation builds for 28 Years Later, the latest chapter in the iconic post-apocalyptic horror saga, director Danny Boyle has opened up about the film’s connection to the original and the notable absence of Cillian Murphy’s character, Jim.

Boyle, who returns alongside writer Alex Garland to helm the sequel, spoke during a recent Q&A hosted by Screen Rant, clarifying how 28 Years Later fits into the story established in 2002. Although initial rumors suggested Murphy would reprise his role, that is no longer the case. Murphy remains involved as a producer, but his character’s fate remains a mystery. Boyle explained, “So, it’s independent from the first film, but it’s still the same apocalypse 28 years later as it was for Cillian Murphy in the first film and Naomie Harris. But this is 28 years later, and we don’t know what’s happened to them [Jim and Selena]. I’m not allowed to tell you, but these two are more than worthy stand-ins.”

The comment raises questions about Jim and Selena’s storylines but also leaves room for speculation. Whether Boyle truly doesn’t know their fate or is deliberately withholding spoilers is unclear. There are rumors circulating that Cillian Murphy may return in the upcoming follow-up, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, which Boyle all but confirmed telling IGN “He is in the second one,” he says before smiling. “I shouldn’t give away too much. I’ll get killed.” Either way, fans will be eager to see if 28 Years Later addresses what happened to the original protagonists or if the sequel focuses entirely on new faces navigating the same apocalyptic landscape.

Though Murphy and Naomie Harris will not appear on screen, the film boasts an impressive cast, led by Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Jack O’Connell, fresh off his critically acclaimed performance in Sinners. Joining the lineup, is Oscar nominee Ralph Fiennes and acclaimed actor Jodie Comer. It’s a strong ensemble to carry the story forward.

Given the involvement of Boyle and Garland and the rich legacy of the franchise, the film looks to deliver a fresh yet familiar take on the infected apocalypse. Fans and newcomers alike will soon find out whether this sequel lives up to the original’s cult status.

28 Years Later is set to hit theaters on June 20.

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