The long-awaited sequel, directed by Danny Boyle, is set nearly three decades after 28 Days Later, the zombie classic that starred Cillian Murphy. This time, the story follows survivors living alongside the infected, including a tight-knit community hiding out on a small island protected by the tides. Williams plays Spike, a teenager who has never known the world before the outbreak.
Born in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England, Williams knew from a young age that he wanted to act, inspired by his father, actor Alfie Dobson. He started out in commercials before landing early film roles that never quite reached the public. Everything changed when he was cast in 28 Years Later — a role he says took numerous auditions and months of waiting.
When he finally got the call, the moment was unforgettable. Williams describes it as “life-changing,” joking that his family celebrated “like rage-infected apes.” The excitement was justified: Spike is a demanding role, requiring Williams to imagine a life without phones, supermarkets, schools, or any connection to modern society.
To prepare, Williams immersed himself in the script and spent two weeks rehearsing with Boyle and co-stars Jodie Comer and Aaron Taylor-Johnson, who play Spike’s parents. The sessions focused on building detailed backstories, helping Williams understand who Spike was before the camera even rolled. According to the young actor, Taylor-Johnson felt so natural in the role that he “felt like my actual dad.”
The story doesn’t end there. Spike’s journey continues in the next installment, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, directed by Nia DaCosta. The sequel picks up immediately after the unsettling final moments of 28 Years Later, introducing a bizarre new threat led by Jack O'Connell as cult leader Jimmy Crystal.
Williams hints that things only get stranger. He describes the cult as “very messed up” and warns that Spike is heading into dangerous territory. “It’s going to be a wild ride,” he says.
The Bone Temple arrives in theaters on January 16, 2026, but Williams already has his eyes on the future. A self-confessed horror fan — with The Thing among his favorites — he’s set to appear next in the supernatural thriller Banquet, directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia. Long term, he hopes to explore many genres and build a career like Andrew Garfield or Bryan Cranston.
For now, Williams is staying grounded, guided by advice he received on set. Taylor-Johnson told him to choose projects he truly cares about and not rush the journey. It’s advice Williams plans to keep close.
At just 14, Alfie Williams is only getting started — but if 28 Years Later is any indication, he’s already well on his way to becoming a major star.
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