Hold onto your wands and gas masks, because Cillian Murphy is setting the record straight about his future projects, and it’s not what you might expect. The actor best known for his intense roles in Peaky Blinders and 28 Years Later is addressing rumors head-on, and here’s the part most people miss: he’s ‘categorically not’ joining the Harry Potter TV series as Voldemort. Yes, you heard that right—despite the buzz, Murphy is shutting down speculation faster than a Dementor’s kiss.
In a recent interview with The Times, Murphy confirmed his enthusiasm for a sequel to 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, the latest installment in the post-apocalyptic franchise where he reprises his role as Jim. ‘Hope so!’ he exclaimed when asked about a follow-up, adding with a smile, ‘I’m ready anyway.’ But here’s where it gets controversial: while fans have been clamoring for him to play the iconic dark wizard in HBO’s Harry Potter adaptation, Murphy couldn’t be clearer: ‘I’m categorically not.’
What’s even more surprising? Murphy had no idea his name was even in the running for the role. ‘Being a personality is not what I’m good at,’ he admitted. ‘Existing in this world—talking about yourself, walking red carpets—it’s not healthy if you start to believe the hype. I’m an incredibly average person, really.’ Bold words from a man who’s anything but average on screen, but they highlight his humility and focus on his craft rather than celebrity status.
Meanwhile, the Harry Potter TV series is already shaping up to be a magical affair, with Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton, and Alastair Stour stepping into the shoes of Harry, Hermione, and Ron, respectively. The cast also includes Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid. Behind the scenes, Succession duo Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod are bringing their expertise, with Gardiner as showrunner and Mylod directing multiple episodes.
But let’s circle back to the elephant in the room: Could Cillian Murphy have been a compelling Voldemort? Or is his self-proclaimed ‘average’ nature exactly why he’s steering clear of such a high-profile role? Is Murphy’s humility a refreshing change in Hollywood, or does it limit his potential to take on iconic characters? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s sure to spark some magical discussion!
