No, Cillian Murphy is not the skeletal zombie in ’28 Years Later’ trailer

Did Cillian Murphy Return as a Zombie in 28 Years Later?

A recent trailer for Danny Boyle’s much-anticipated “28 Years Later,” releasing on June 20, 2025, has sparked speculation that Cillian Murphy, who starred in the original 28 Days Later, has returned to the franchise as a zombie. The rumors began when fans noticed a gaunt, skeletal figure in the trailer, leading many to believe it was Murphy.

Social Media Posts

Multiple social media users have shared a shot from the “28 Years Later” trailer showing a skeletal zombie, claiming it was Cillian Murphy based on rumors of his return to the franchise.

The claim spread rapidly across Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), garnering over 21 million views so far on a single X post.

Source | Archive

Source | Archive

Source | Archive

More claims can be found here and here.

However, we found that the viral zombie is not Cillian Murphy.

Fact-Check

Who Plays the Zombie in “28 Years Later”?

In the trailer, a skeletal figure appears in a scene rising behind lead actor Jodie Comer. Following the trailer’s release, social media discussions speculated about Murphy’s involvement. However, the character known as the “Emaciated Infected” is portrayed by Angus Neill, an art dealer and model making his acting debut.

According to production notes, Neill was selected for the role due to his physical characteristics that aligned with the director’s vision for the character. Neill, who had not acted previously, joined the production and worked with Boyle on set to bring the character to life. (Source: The Guardian)

Will Murphy be in This Sequel?

While Cillian Murphy has expressed enthusiasm for the franchise, his involvement in the sequel remains unconfirmed. In earlier interview in January 2024, Murphy stated he would “be there in a flash” to work with director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland again. Though neither the trailer nor official announcements mention his participation in 28 Years Later, Sony Motion Pictures chairman Tim Rothman confirmed to Deadline in May 2024 that Murphy’s character will return in “a surprising way and in a way that grows.”

Conclusion

Social media claim stating that the skeletal figure in “28 Years Later” is Cillian Murphy is false, production records indicate the character is played by Angus Neill. While Sony executives have mentioned Murphy’s potential involvement in the franchise, no official confirmation has been made regarding his specific role.