HBO confirms that Cillian Murphy, a passionate Manchester United fan, will portray the legendary Sir Matt Busby in the biographical film “In Red We Rise”. The film will recount Busby’s monumental journey in the EPL and highlight a significant part of Manchester United history.

By Dessy On Aug 17, 2025

In a casting reveal that has stirred excitement across both the football world and the film industry, HBO has announced that Cillian Murphy — having recently gained worldwide praise for his performance in *Oppenheimer* — is set to play the iconic Sir Matt Busby in the forthcoming biopic *“In Red We Rise.”*

Matt understood United, he was a godsend for me’ | The Independent | The Independent

A passionate Manchester United fan, Murphy shared that the part is *“more than just a character — it’s an honour, a duty, and a story that shaped millions of lives, including mine.”*

The movie will follow Busby’s extraordinary evolution from a Scottish footballer to one of the sport’s most innovative and beloved managers. *“In Red We Rise”* is expected to deliver an epic tale of perseverance, heartbreak, renewal, and triumph, reflecting the deep cultural impact Manchester United has had over the decades.

### A Journey Built from Tragedy and Triumph

Directed by Tom Hooper (*The King’s Speech, The Damned United*), the story will revisit major milestones in Busby’s life:

* His formative years as a player with Manchester City and Liverpool, followed by his appointment at United in 1945.

* His creation of the Busby Babes — a trailblazing young team that dazzled English football with their dynamic style.

* The devastating 1958 Munich Air Disaster, which took the lives of eight players and left Busby gravely injured — both physically and emotionally.

* His courageous comeback and the emotional path to the 1968 European Cup victory, which marked United as the first English side to claim the title.

Manchester United plan mosaic tribute to Sir Matt Busby in Rome | Manchester United | The Guardian

### *“In Red We Rise”* — A Name with Deep Meaning

The film’s title reflects the club’s journey through suffering and resurgence. It symbolizes the enduring connection between the team and its supporters, and between legacy and remembrance. It tells the story of Manchester — and the visionary who gave it renewed purpose.

*“Sir Matt Busby didn’t just rebuild a football club,” Murphy said. “He rebuilt hearts. He believed that from ruin, beauty could be born again — and he proved it.”*

### Supported by United, Crafted for a Global Audience

Produced in partnership with the Manchester United Foundation and with the blessing of the Busby family, the film aims to deliver emotional depth, historical accuracy, and a lasting message of hope, leadership, and resilience.

Written by Steven Knight (*Peaky Blinders, Eastern Promises*), the script will showcase both the majesty of Old Trafford and the quiet inner strength that defined Busby’s leadership style.

*“In Red We Rise”* is scheduled to premiere on HBO and Max in 2026, aligning with the 60-year anniversary of Busby’s most legendary squad and ahead of Manchester United’s 150th anniversary celebrations.

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