Aran Murphy has opened up about the advice his father, Cillian Murphy, gave him ahead of his feature-film debut in Klara and the Sun. Cillian Murphy has spent decades establishing himself as one of the industry's most respected actors, earning widespread recognition for projects ranging from Peaky Blinders to Oppenheimer. Now, his son Aran is beginning to carve out his own path in the entertainment industry.

The younger Murphy is making his feature-film debut in Taika Waititi’s adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s bestselling novel, stepping into a story that explores loneliness, technology, and the meaning of human connection. And as the red carpet rolls out for the project, Aran has shared what his father has advised him to follow.

At the BFI London Film Festival, Aran offered a glimpse into the guidance he received from his father as he prepared to take this important step.

Speaking on the red carpet at the BFI London Film Festival, Aran revealed that his father’s advice was straightforward but meaningful.

“He kind of always just says trust your instincts. It's a pretty universal piece of advice, but yeah, trust your instincts and be kind to people,” he said to Deadline.

Rather than offering a complicated formula for success, Cillian’s words, as Aran shared, focus on trusting one’s judgment while treating others with kindness. It is advice that applies beyond acting, particularly for someone entering an industry where navigating relationships can be just as important as developing a craft.

Aran’s comments also offer a small glimpse into the family behind the actor, whose two sons have largely grown up away from the public eye. 

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But Aran’s debut is not just a milestone for the Murphy family. It also introduces him to audiences through a story that asks what it means to be human.

Directed by Taika Waititi, Klara and the Sun stars Jenna Ortega as Klara, an Artificial Friend designed to ease loneliness. When she is chosen by Josie, a young girl played by Mia Tharia, Klara forms a bond with her and tries to help bring hope to a family dealing with grief and personal struggles. Aran Murphy plays Rick, Josie’s close friend.

The film also features Amy Adams, Steve Buscemi, and Natasha Lyonne. Based on Ishiguro’s 2021 novel, it explores the boundaries between artificial intelligence, emotion, and human connection. Klara and the Sun is scheduled to be released in theaters on October 23, 2026.

As Aran begins his own acting journey, his father’s advice offers a grounded starting point: trust his instincts, stay kind, and let his work speak for itself.

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What do you think about Cillian Murphy's advice to his son? Let us know in the comments.