Cillian Murphy Set to Return in Surprise Role for 28 Years Later Sequel

Cillian Murphy is surprisingly poised for a return in "28 Years Later." Sony Motion Pictures' chairman, Tom Rothman, has confirmed that Murphy is slated to feature in the forthcoming sequel to his groundbreaking 2002 film that significantly boosted his career.

In a dialogue with Deadline regarding Murphy's participation in the sequel, Rothman remarked, "Yes, but in a way that surprises and evolves, to phrase it differently."

Initially revealed as a duo of films, 28 Years Later was later designated as a trilogy, with Rothman clarifying that it should not be viewed as a direct sequel. The 28 Years Later Part One cast includes Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ralph Fiennes, and Jodie Comer. They will portray a fresh ensemble of survivors attempting to withstand the aftermath of a virus that heightens aggression nearly three decades following its first emergence. The creative duo behind the original, Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland have joined forces once more. Boyle helms Part One, and Garland is responsible for its screenplay.

The original film showcased Murphy as a bicycle courier who emerges from a coma to discover a virus has ravaged civilization. 28 Days Later achieved a box office success of $82 million from an $8 million budget, catapulting Murphy into stardom. The sequel, 28 Weeks Later, directed by Juan Carlos Fresnadillo, was released in 2007.

As of now, 28 Years Later does not have an announced release date.