Alfie Williams: The Rising Star Behind “28 Years Later”
Meet the young British actor redefining the horror genre with talent, heart, and cinematic presence
Introduction
Alfie Williams is quickly emerging as one of the most promising young actors in the UK film industry. Best known for his lead role in the 2025 blockbuster 28 Years Later, Alfie’s performance captured global attention with its emotional depth and commanding screen presence. Balancing professionalism with youthful charm, his rapid rise in cinema is turning heads among critics, directors, and fans alike.
Born and raised in Newcastle upon Tyne, Alfie’s journey began on the local stage before moving to short films, television, and eventually leading a major film franchise. His grounded personality and dedication to his craft have positioned him as a talent to watch in British cinema.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Alfie Williams |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 3 January 2011 |
| Age | 14 (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | British |
| Birthplace | Newcastle upon Tyne, England |
| Profession | Actor |
| Known For | Lead role in 28 Years Later (2025) |
| Current Location | Gateshead, UK |
Discovering a Love for Acting
From an early age, Alfie Williams demonstrated an innate interest in storytelling and performance. At just six years old, he starred as Scrooge in his school’s production of A Christmas Carol, an experience that sparked his love for acting. His father, Alfie Dobson, also an actor, played a pivotal role in nurturing his passion and guiding him into the world of performing arts.
Alfie’s performances were not just natural—they were layered, reflective of someone who studied his roles carefully. He worked on his accents, gestures, and expressions with remarkable discipline for someone his age. This early dedication set him apart from many of his peers and laid the foundation for a strong future in acting.
Shifting to Screen Work
Although he briefly attended a drama school, Alfie soon realised his heart lay in screen acting rather than musical theatre. At the age of seven, he began auditioning for short films and commercials, eventually landing his first screen role. His growing confidence and versatility helped him transition smoothly into professional acting roles.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough Roles
First Screen Appearances
Alfie’s first notable role came in the 2021 short film Phallacy, where he shared the screen with acclaimed actors like Stephen Graham and Shaun Parkes. His performance impressed industry professionals and quickly earned him representation with Independent Talent Group, one of the UK’s most prestigious agencies.
In 2022, he appeared in the hit BBC/HBO series His Dark Materials as Ghost Theo and later voiced a role in BBC Radio 4’s Our Friends in the North. These appearances helped solidify his presence in the industry and showcased his adaptability across different media.
Role in A New Breed of Criminal
In 2023, Alfie portrayed a young John Henry Sayers in the film A New Breed of Criminal. This role gave him the opportunity to embody a real-life character and explore complex emotions, adding to his growing credibility as a serious young actor.
Global Fame: 28 Years Later
Playing Spike in a Franchise Sequel
The turning point in Alfie’s career came with his casting as the lead character, Spike, in 28 Years Later—the highly anticipated sequel to Danny Boyle’s apocalyptic film series. Released in 2025, the movie placed Alfie at the centre of a tense and gripping narrative, where he delivered a performance full of maturity, vulnerability, and power.
Critics from Empire, The Times, and The Hollywood Reporter praised Alfie’s portrayal, calling him “the undisputed protagonist” and “an outstanding new talent.” Despite the film’s dark tone and intense scenes, Alfie maintained balance by studying, relaxing, and even doing maths between takes.
Building Buzz with Critics and Fans
Audiences were captivated by his sincerity and presence on-screen. His face appeared on posters, billboards, and even buses across major cities, symbolising his transformation into a leading figure in British cinema. Media outlets like Rolling Stone UK and i-D magazine featured interviews with him, delving into his process, inspirations, and the experience of working with stars like Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Jodie Comer.
Current Projects and Future Outlook
Confirmed Sequel: The Bone Temple
Alfie has already completed filming for 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, the sequel set to release in 2026. His return as Spike promises to further develop the character and solidify his place in the franchise.
The confidence shown by the producers and directors to cast Alfie as a central figure in two consecutive films speaks volumes about his acting ability, reliability, and star power. His future in the industry is not only bright—it’s secure.
Diversifying His Talents
Outside of acting, Alfie is also musically inclined. On set, he was gifted a vintage acoustic guitar by his co-star, sparking a newfound passion for music. He admires bands like Nirvana and artists such as Kurt Cobain, blending his love for acting with musical inspiration.
His versatility and interest in different art forms suggest he may explore multiple creative paths, making him a multi-dimensional talent in the entertainment world.
Personal Life and Interests
Balancing Life and Fame
Despite his growing fame, Alfie remains grounded. He currently lives in Gateshead and is homeschooled to balance education with acting commitments. His parents ensure he has a normal childhood, including time for his hobbies and pets.
Alfie is an avid gamer who enjoys titles like Red Dead Redemption, Dead by Daylight, and Ghost of Tsushima. He also shares his home with a dog named Shelby and a cat named Hiro, bringing comfort during his time off set.
Staying Grounded Through Support
The support of his family, particularly his father, has played a crucial role in his well-being. Interviews often highlight how Alfie remains humble, curious, and eager to learn from every opportunity. This emotional intelligence enhances both his personal growth and his artistic journey.
Legacy and Industry Impact
Changing the Face of Youth Performance
Alfie Williams is not just a young actor playing leading roles—he represents a new generation of performers who bring authenticity and emotional depth to their characters. His ability to navigate heavy themes while remaining accessible to audiences of all ages is a rare gift.
His breakout success in 28 Years Later may inspire casting directors to take more chances on younger talent. With his charm, discipline, and artistic maturity, Alfie is setting a new benchmark for what young actors can achieve.
Future Potential
With multiple international interviews, a growing fanbase, and a confirmed sequel on the horizon, Alfie is poised for a long and successful career. Whether he sticks to dramatic roles or ventures into comedy, music, or even directing, the industry is keeping a close eye on what he does next.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Alfie Williams?
Alfie Williams is a British child actor known for his lead role in the 2025 film 28 Years Later.
How old is Alfie Williams?
He was born on 3 January 2011, making him 14 years old in 2025.
What was Alfie Williams’s breakout role?
He gained international fame playing Spike in 28 Years Later.
Where is Alfie from?
He is from Newcastle upon Tyne, England, and currently lives in Gateshead.
What are Alfie’s hobbies?
He enjoys playing guitar, video games, and spending time with his pets.
