28 Years Later Ending Explained: Sequel Teased and Major Characters Revealed for The Bone Temple
If you thought 28 Years Later was wrapping up the iconic horror saga with a bang, think again! The film’s ending is basically a massive post-credits tease for what’s coming next in the trilogy. And yes, there’s a sequel on the way sooner than you think.
- Find out how 28 Years Later sets up its sequel
- Meet the new cult leader Jimmy and what he means for the story
- Learn about the next movie, The Bone Temple, coming January 2026
- Discover which characters will return and what’s planned for the trilogy’s finale
28 Years Later’s Ending: More Than Just a Cliffhanger
Although 28 Years Later is technically the third movie in the series, it stands strong as its own story—at least, until those final minutes. The film, directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland, starts as a post-apocalyptic coming-of-age tale following 12-year-old Spike (Alfie Williams). But the opening scene, featuring terrified kids watching Teletubbies during the Rage Virus outbreak, only reveals its true importance at the end, hinting at a much larger narrative at play.
The movie’s last moments serve as a direct setup for the next chapter: 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, which is dropping in January 2026. So if you’re craving more of this world, you won’t have to wait long!
Meet Jimmy: From Survivor to Cult Leader
One of the most intriguing characters is Jimmy, played as a child by Rocco Haynes and as an adult by Jack O’Connell (Sinners). After surviving the initial outbreak, Jimmy grows up to become the flamboyant leader of a cult. His look—upside-down crucifix, tiara, tracksuit, and flashy rings—definitely stands out. According to Boyle, Jimmy’s character and style are inspired by BBC host Jimmy Savile, adding another layer of dark intrigue.
Jimmy’s cult isn’t just for show—they fight the infected with martial arts, a sharp contrast to the bow-wielding survivors like Spike. If you’re curious to see this in action, check out the film’s trailer below:
The Bone Temple: What’s Next for the Franchise?
The story of Jimmy will continue in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, filmed back-to-back with its predecessor and set to release on January 16, 2026. This sequel is directed by Nia DaCosta (Candyman) and written by Garland. The title refers to a “memento mori” built by Dr. Ian Kelson (Ralph Fiennes), who, along with Jimmy and Spike, will play major roles. According to Boyle in an IndieWire interview, the new movie will dive deep into “the nature of evil.”
Expect things to get even darker—Jimmy’s cult is likely behind the chilling scene where Spike and his dad find a man tied up and branded, left as food for the infected. Garland has explained that Jimmy represents a twisted, nostalgic view of the past, where memories are cherry-picked and distorted. For more insight, check out Garland’s thoughts in this Variety interview.
The Future: Cillian Murphy’s Return?
But the surprises don’t stop there! Garland is already working on the script for the trilogy’s final film, with Boyle set to direct. This one will circle back to the roots of the franchise and focus on Jim, the bicycle messenger played by Cillian Murphy in 28 Days Later. As Boyle put it:
“You have to acknowledge the first film, but to a minimal degree, but we tried to make a standalone film in its own right. But Cillian, for instance, who’d be the most obvious way to make the thing feel continuous with the first film, is a very important feature of the trilogy — but not just yet.”
So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love a good post-apocalyptic twist, keep your eyes peeled—this trilogy is just getting started!
