When the Rage Virus resurfaces on the big screen in 28 Years Later, one of the standout performances doesn’t come from Hollywood royalty — but from Riffa, Bahrain.
Ghazi Al Ruffai, a 30-year-old Bahraini actor, has landed a major breakout role as Jimmy Snake in the long-awaited sequel to Danny Boyle’s cult-classic 28 Days Later. Starring alongside Ralph Fiennes, Jack O’Connell, and newcomer Alfie Williams, Ghazi’s presence brings intensity, precision, and Middle Eastern grit to the post-apocalyptic franchise.
“Filming was wild — from cliffhanger scenes to fight choreography, I still pinch myself,” Ghazi says.
A New Kind of Horror Star
Set in a world still reeling from the viral outbreak introduced over two decades ago, 28 Years Later takes the series in a bold new direction. This time, it’s not just infected mobs to fear — it’s organised survivors, cults, and those who’ve learned to weaponise the apocalypse.
Ghazi’s character, Jimmy Snake, leads one such group: a militant, cult-like faction thriving in the ruins of society. With choreographed action scenes and a commanding presence, Snake becomes more than a background threat — he’s a symbol of what’s left when humanity turns on itself.
Ghazi performs much of his own stunt work in the film. A strong physical actor with theatre roots, he brings realism to the violence and emotion to the chaos. His role isn’t just thrilling — it’s memorable.
From St Chris to the Silver Screen
Raised in Riffa, Ghazi attended St Christopher’s School in Saar, where his love for drama was first sparked. School plays gave way to professional training in the UK at Guildford School of Acting and the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama — both institutions known for producing serious stage and screen talent.
His path wasn’t handed to him. Bahrain’s film industry is still growing, with limited infrastructure for homegrown actors. But Ghazi made it work, building a portfolio of indie work, theatre, and regional productions before making the leap to international cinema.
Today, with over 200,000 followers on social media and a growing fanbase across the Gulf and Europe, Ghazi’s career is entering a new chapter.
What 28 Years Later Means for Regional Talent
The 28 Days Later franchise is more than a zombie horror saga. Directed by Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire), it’s credited with redefining the genre — fast-paced, socially aware, and visually striking.
Now, with the third instalment, the franchise welcomes diverse casting and global voices. Ghazi’s inclusion isn’t tokenism — it’s talent recognition. He holds his own among big-name British stars and paves the way for other Arab creatives to do the same.
His success sends a clear message:
- Bahraini talent is exportable
- Arabic actors can do more than “regional roles”
- The Gulf has stories — and storytellers — worth spotlighting
Coming Soon: 28 Years Later – The Bone Temple
Ghazi will return in the sequel, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, scheduled for release on 16 January 2026. Directed by Nia DaCosta (Candyman, The Marvels) and written by Alex Garland (Ex Machina), the film will deepen the mythology around Jimmy Snake and his cult faction.
Early leaks suggest that Snake’s group will be central to the plot — more militant, more dangerous, and possibly more sympathetic than first expected. Ghazi is expected to have expanded screen time, reflecting the strength of audience reception to his performance.
Production wrapped in late 2024. Post-production is underway, with teasers likely to drop before the end of this year.
More Than Acting: Representing Bahrain
Ghazi has always seen himself as more than an actor — he’s a storyteller, mentor, and cultural ambassador. His journey from Riffa to red carpets is proof of what’s possible when passion meets persistence.
He’s committed to:
- Supporting Bahraini creatives through mentorship and collaborations
- Advocating for stronger film education and funding locally
- Encouraging young artists to aim beyond borders
As Middle Eastern representation in global media grows, Ghazi’s rise couldn’t come at a better time. With festivals like the Red Sea International Film Festival and filmmakers like Haifaa Al-Mansour gaining momentum, Bahraini cinema may soon have a stronger seat at the table.
Final Takeaway: Bahrain to the World
Ghazi Al Ruffai is more than a character in a film — he’s a living example of how regional roots and global reach can coexist. His performance in 28 Years Later doesn’t just entertain — it inspires.
Reflection:
If a kid from Riffa can become part of one of the most iconic horror franchises in modern film, what’s stopping the next generation of Bahraini creatives?
📍 Watch this space — 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple lands January 2026.
🎥 Follow Ghazi on Instagram @ghazialruffai for behind-the-scenes stories, upcoming projects, and exclusive content.
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