Scottish Musician Lands Role in 28 Years Later After Playing ‘Three Lions’ at a Gig

Ruairidh MacLean, a musician from Ullapool performing under the name RuMac, believes that a cheeky rendition of the England football fan anthem ‘Three Lions’ helped him secure a role in Danny Boyle’s zombie horror movie, ’28 Years Later.’ The accordionist, who had been performing in the Highlands, caught the attention of two production designers who were in the crowd. They recommended him to Boyle, who later offered him a role in the film. MacLean had been playing at a gig where Scotland fans had requested ‘Flower of Scotland,’ but instead, he performed an extended version of ‘Three Lions,’ which resulted in a mix of jeers and cheers. The musicians’ ability to turn the crowd around with his performance eventually led to him being cast. MacLean received the offer while on a ferry to Uist, and the experience of working on the film was described as thrilling, especially since he was a fan of the original ’28 Days Later.’ MacLean’s role is kept under wraps, though he does confirm he appears alongside fellow Gaelic musician Ruairidh Graham. The film is the third installment in Boyle’s zombie series, set in a Britain ravaged by violence and zombies. The film also features a star-studded cast including Jodie Comer and Ralph Fiennes. MacLean has had a busy year, performing on ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ and planning appearances at music festivals later in the year.