The Peaky Blinders star reprised his role as Jim in The Bone Temple and says a sequel is on the table but insists he has nothing to do with HBO’s hotly anticipated Harry Potter reboot.
Cillian Murphy is setting the record straight on two fronts. The Oscar-winning actor talked to The Times about the rumours surrounding his role in HBO’s new Harry Potter series. He denied the claims with conviction but hinted that the 28 Years Later franchise still has more to offer.
Murphy recently returned as Jim, the bicycle courier who wakes from a coma to find Britain taken over by the Rage virus. This is in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, Danny Boyle’s long-awaited comeback to the post-apocalyptic horror world he created in 2002. The film is getting a lot of awards buzz and positive audience feedback. So, fans are wondering about a follow-up.
Key Takeaways
- Murphy reprised the role of Jim in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple and says he’s “ready” for a sequel
- He denied rumors he is playing Voldemort in HBO’s Harry Potter reboot, stating firmly: “I’m categorically not.”
- Murphy admitted he wasn’t even aware his name was circulating for the role
- HBO’s Harry Potter series has already cast Harry, Ron, Hermione, Snape, Dumbledore, McGonagall, and Hagrid
- Succession alums Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod helm the series as showrunner and director
Murphy on a ’28 Years Later’ Sequel: “I’m Ready”
When asked directly whether more entries in the 28 Years Later franchise could happen, Murphy didn’t hesitate. “Hope so! I’m ready anyway,” he told The Times. The short comment shows the actor is keen to continue the story. It also hints that talks about a sequel might be happening behind the scenes.
The Bone Temple marked Murphy’s return to the franchise he helped start over twenty years ago. The original 2002 film *28 Days Later* showed a chilling, realistic take on pandemic horror. Its 2007 sequel, *28 Weeks Later*, broadened the story but left out Murphy. Now, *The Bone Temple* reunites Boyle and Murphy, seen as the perfect duo to bring the series back to its roots.
Voldemort Rumors: Murphy Says He Had No Idea
A key point from Murphy’s interview is HBO’s much-anticipated Harry Potter TV series. Cillian Murphy’s name has appeared online as a potential choice to play Lord Voldemort, one of the most famous villains in books and films. Speculation grew from Murphy’s praised role as the cold-blooded Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders. His powerful performance as J. Robert Oppenheimer in Christopher Nolan’s film Oppenheimer further boosted the excitement.
Murphy’s response, however, was unambiguous. “I’m not,” he said, adding that he wasn’t even aware his name had entered the conversation. The actor took a moment to honestly reflect on his tricky relationship with celebrity culture.
“Being a personality is not what I am good at,” Murphy said. “But then existing in this world? Talking about yourself, going on red carpets? It’s not healthy if you start to believe this, and I’m really bad at it too. I’m an incredibly average person, really.” It’s a genuine feeling from an actor who has stayed true to himself, avoiding the pitfalls of Hollywood fame even as his popularity grew after winning an Academy Award.
Who Is Playing Voldemort? The Harry Potter Cast So Far
HBO’s Harry Potter reboot, a series based on J.K. Rowling’s seven-novel saga, is steadily building its cast. The three main roles feature mostly unknown young actors: Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stour as Ron Weasley.
The supporting roster, however, is anything but unknown. Paapa Essiedu, the acclaimed British actor known for I May Destroy You, takes on the pivotal role of Severus Snape. John Lithgow brings his considerable gravitas to Albus Dumbledore. Janet McTeer steps into the tartan robes of Minerva McGonagall, and Nick Frost will play the beloved half-giant Rubeus Hagrid. The role of Voldemort, Murphy’s alleged casting aside, has not yet been publicly confirmed.
Behind the camera, the series is in seasoned hands. Francesca Gardiner, a writer from Succession, is the showrunner and executive producer. She is known for her acclaimed work on the HBO drama. Mark Mylod, a skilled director from Succession, influenced the show’s style with his focus on characters. He will direct several episodes and serve as executive producer.
Why Murphy’s Denial Matters for the Harry Potter Franchise
Murphy’s strong denial takes away a popular fan-casting idea that was gaining attention online. Choosing Voldemort’s actor is a major decision for the Harry Potter production, especially considering Ralph Fiennes‘ memorable portrayal in eight films. Murphy’s dismissal clears up his position and shifts speculation to other potential casting choices.
For Murphy, the interview reinforces his image as a powerful actor who remains uninterested in the celebrity game. Whether turning down major franchise villains or ignoring online rumors, his focus stays firmly on his craft. For now, that work reportedly involves tackling a gripping story centered around a zombie apocalypse rather than stepping into the dark robes of Voldemort.
