Fans Speculate Cillian Murphy’s Return in 28 Years Later, but Newcomer Angus Neill Takes the Spotlight

The trailer for 28 Years Later, Danny Boyle’s highly anticipated zombie sequel, has sparked excitement and speculation online. Fans were quick to notice the gaunt, haunting figure of an undead character appearing behind new star Jodie Comer, with many assuming it was a cameo by original star Cillian Murphy.

On social media platform X, reactions to Murphy’s apparent involvement were enthusiastic, with one user praising his "perfect eerie vibe" for playing an infected character. Another expressed surprise, saying, “Oh god finally! Was not expecting Cillian Murphy to come back like that!”

However, it has been confirmed that the actor behind the "Emaciated Infected" is not Murphy, but newcomer Angus Neill. A professional art dealer and model with a striking appearance, Neill was personally selected by Boyle for the role. Neill shared that working with Boyle was an intense but rewarding experience.

Neill’s distinct look, including a 28-inch waist, caught Boyle’s attention, making him an ideal choice for the haunting role. Meanwhile, Murphy, who starred in the original 28 Days Later as a bicycle courier navigating a post-apocalyptic world, has openly expressed interest in returning to the franchise. He was absent from the 2007 sequel, 28 Weeks Later, but has stated he would gladly collaborate with Boyle and writer Alex Garland again.

Alongside Comer and Neill, the film features a stellar cast, including Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ralph Fiennes, and Jack O’Connell. Whether Murphy will make a surprise appearance remains a tantalizing question for fans. The movie is set to release in June 2025, distributed by Sony Pictures.