Cillian Murphy Is Not the Infected in the ’28 Years Later’ Trailer—Art Dealer Angus Neill Takes the Spotlight

The internet was ablaze with speculation when the trailer for 28 Years Later, the long-awaited sequel to Danny Boyle’s cult-favorite 28 Days Later and 28 Weeks Later, dropped earlier this week. Fans were quick to dissect every frame, with many believing they had spotted Cillian Murphy’s character, Jim, among the infected. However, the truth has now been revealed: the zombie in question is not Murphy, but rather art dealer Angus Neill, who has officially stepped into the spotlight for this iconic role.

The Return of a Horror Classic

28 Years Later marks the third installment in the critically acclaimed series that redefined the zombie genre. Directed once again by Danny Boyle, the film is set to explore a world even more ravaged by the Rage Virus, decades after the initial outbreak. The trailer’s haunting visuals and chilling score have already reignited interest in the franchise, with fans eager to see how the story unfolds in this dystopian landscape.

Cillian Murphy, who played the protagonist Jim in the original 28 Days Later, was long rumored to reprise his role. His character’s survival at the end of the first film left the door open for a potential return, and fans have been clamoring for his involvement ever since. But while Murphy does appear in the film, it’s not in the way many had hoped.

Angus Neill Steps Into the Limelight

The confusion began when a brief shot in the trailer showcased a menacing infected figure with strikingly familiar features. Social media erupted with claims that this could be Jim, now tragically transformed into one of the infected. However, Angus Neill has now clarified that he is the actor behind the zombie in question.

Neill, a London-based art dealer with a passion for acting, took to Instagram to confirm his involvement. “Yes, that’s me as the infected in the 28 Years Later trailer,” he wrote, accompanied by behind-the-scenes photos of his transformation. “Working with Danny Boyle and the team was a dream come true. I’ve always been a fan of the series, so stepping into this world was surreal.”

Neill’s casting adds an intriguing layer to the film’s production. Known more for his work in the art world than on the big screen, his performance as an infected promises to bring a fresh perspective to the franchise. Boyle’s decision to cast someone outside the usual Hollywood roster underscores his commitment to authenticity and innovation.

Why Fans Thought It Was Cillian Murphy

The resemblance between Neill and Murphy in the trailer’s fleeting moments is uncanny. Both share similar facial structures and intense gazes, making it easy to see why fans jumped to conclusions. Moreover, the trailer’s editing—interspersing shots of the infected with scenes of Murphy’s Jim—only fueled the speculation.

“It’s a testament to how iconic Cillian’s performance was in the original film,” Neill commented in an interview. “People want to see more of him, and I’m honored to be mistaken for such a talented actor.”

What Role Does Cillian Murphy Play?

While Murphy is not playing an infected, his role in 28 Years Later remains significant. The actor has confirmed his return to the franchise, though details about Jim’s storyline are being kept tightly under wraps. Early reports suggest that Jim will serve as a central figure in the film’s exploration of humanity’s resilience and the long-term effects of the Rage Virus.

“Returning to this world after so many years was both challenging and rewarding,” Murphy shared in a recent interview. “Danny’s vision for the film is extraordinary, and I think fans will be surprised by where the story takes Jim.”

A New Era of Infection

28 Years Later promises to expand the franchise’s mythology in bold new directions. The trailer hints at a society that has adapted to living with the ever-present threat of the infected, raising questions about morality, survival, and the cost of rebuilding civilization. With Angus Neill’s infected character making a strong impression, it’s clear that the film will deliver both emotional depth and visceral horror.

Neill’s performance as an infected is already being hailed as a standout. Behind-the-scenes footage reveals the painstaking effort that went into his transformation, from intricate prosthetics to grueling physical training. “Playing an infected is no easy feat,” Neill admitted. “It’s about embodying the Rage Virus on a primal level, and I hope I’ve done it justice.”

Fan Reactions

Despite the initial confusion, fans have expressed excitement about Neill’s involvement. “Angus Neill looks terrifying as the infected,” one fan tweeted. “If he’s half as good as the trailer suggests, we’re in for a treat.” Others are eager to see how Murphy’s Jim fits into the larger narrative, with many speculating that his character may hold the key to humanity’s survival.

Conclusion

As anticipation for 28 Years Later continues to build, the revelation that Angus Neill is the infected in the trailer adds an exciting twist to the film’s marketing. While fans may have initially hoped for Cillian Murphy in that role, Neill’s performance promises to be a memorable addition to the franchise. With Danny Boyle at the helm and a stellar cast bringing the story to life, 28 Years Later is shaping up to be a worthy successor to its groundbreaking predecessors.