Cillian Murphy has addressed two major rumors circulating among fans—one about the future of the 28 Years Later franchise and another linking him to HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter television series.
The Oscar-winning actor recently returned to the post-apocalyptic world that helped launch his global fame, reprising his role as Jim in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. With a follow-up film already being discussed, many fans are wondering whether Murphy will continue his involvement in the expanding franchise.
When asked about the possibility of another installment during an interview with The Times, Murphy sounded enthusiastic about returning to the story.
“Hope so!” he said when asked about a sequel. “I’m ready anyway.”
Murphy’s return has reignited excitement among longtime fans of the franchise, which began with Danny Boyle’s influential zombie thriller 28 Days Later. The original film helped redefine the genre and became a cult classic, making Murphy’s return decades later a major moment for the series.
At the same time, the actor took the opportunity to shut down rumors suggesting he might appear in HBO’s highly anticipated Harry Potter television adaptation. Online speculation had suggested Murphy could be cast as the dark wizard Lord Voldemort.
Murphy made it clear the rumors were not true.
“I’m categorically not,” he said when asked if he was involved in the project.
The Irish star admitted he hadn’t even heard about the speculation until it was brought to his attention. Reflecting on the nature of celebrity attention, Murphy said he has always felt uncomfortable with the spotlight and the culture that surrounds fame.
“Being a personality is not what I’m good at,” he explained. “Talking about yourself, going on red carpets—it’s not healthy if you start to believe that stuff.”
Murphy added that he considers himself far from extraordinary despite his success in film and television.
“I’m an incredibly average person, really,” he said.
Meanwhile, HBO’s Harry Potter series has already confirmed several key casting decisions. Dominic McLaughlin will play Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton will portray Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stour will take on the role of Ron Weasley.
The ensemble cast also includes Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid.
While Murphy won’t be joining the wizarding world, fans may still see much more of him in the expanding 28 Years Later universe if the next chapter moves forward.
