In 1996, Murphy starred in the play “Disco Pigs” alongside Eileen Walsh, portraying the characters Pig and Runt. The play exceeded expectations and toured internationally for two years. During this time, Murphy left University College Cork and his music band, The Sons of Mr. Green Genes.

Theater played a significant role in Murphy’s early career, with notable performances in productions such as “The Country Boy” and “Juno and the Paycock” in 1999. In the early 2000s, Murphy ventured into film, appearing in projects like “Filleann and Feall,” “On The Edge,” and a film adaptation of “Disco Pigs.” His breakthrough came with the film “28 Days Later,” directed by Danny Boyle, which garnered commercial success and introduced Murphy to a wider audience.

In the following years, Murphy starred in films such as “Intermission” alongside Colin Farrell and Kerry Condon, “Breakfast on Pluto,” and “Sunshine,” reuniting with Danny Boyle. He also took on lesser-known projects like “Watching the Detectives” and “Hippie Hippie Shake.” Notably, Murphy portrayed the villainous Scarecrow in Christopher Nolan’s “Batman Begins” and reprised the role in subsequent films within the trilogy.

Murphy’s role as Tommy Shelby in the critically acclaimed series “Peaky Blinders” further solidified his career, combining his television work with independent and mid-budget films. In recent years, he starred in “Oppenheimer,” a Nolan film that garnered critical acclaim and earned Murphy awards recognition, including a BAFTA, SAG, and an Academy Award, making him the first Irish-born actor to win Best Actor.

In addition to his acting achievements, Murphy co-produced the film “Small Things Like These” and is involved in the production company Big Things Films. His upcoming projects include “Steve,” a Netflix adaptation of Max Porter’s novel, and a potential sequel to “28 Days Later,” where he may serve as an executive producer.

As Murphy’s career reaches new heights, he continues showcasing his talent and versatility, significantly impacting the film industry.