Michael Fergus, the younger brother of James Bulger, declared in a heartfelt interview marking the 30th anniversary of the 1993 tragedy that he will never forgive the two individuals responsible, emphasizing the lasting impact on his family and his call for ongoing accountability.

Born just eight months after the events of February 12, 1993, Michael Fergus entered a world forever altered by the loss of his toddler brother. At 29 years old during the anniversary in 2023, now a landscape gardener residing in north-west England, Fergus has carried the weight of the family’s story throughout his life. In an exclusive conversation with the Sunday Express, he shared, “My brother’s perpetrators will never be forgiven. They took away my older brother who I never got to meet. I would have loved to have looked up to him, asked him questions, talked to him about exams, cars, going to bars—normal stuff.”

Fergus’s words underscore a profound sense of absence, not just for himself but for the everyday sibling bond that was denied to him. Growing up under the shadow of public scrutiny, he explained how his surname was changed to Fergus before starting school to shield him from prying questions from peers. This protective measure highlights the broader ripple effects on the family, where privacy became a necessity amid relentless media attention.

The 30th anniversary served as a poignant milestone, prompting reflections from multiple family members. Denise Fergus, James’s mother, paid a touching tribute to her son, reaffirming her commitment to advocacy work through the J4M Foundation, which supports families affected by similar losses. James’s father, Ralph Bulger, revealed discussions with then-Justice Secretary Dominic Raab, who expressed agreement that individuals like Jon Venables “don’t deserve to ever be released from custody.”

Central to Fergus’s stance is his desire for “justice for James,” which he defines as ensuring Venables remains in custody, alongside his accomplice Robert Thompson. Venables, now 42, has faced multiple recalls to prison since his initial release in 2001—first in 2010 and again in 2017 for possessing inappropriate images of children. His 2020 parole application was denied, and as of the latest updates in 2023, he continues to serve time under strict supervision. Thompson, also 42, was released in 2001 and has maintained a low profile without further incidents, living under a protected identity in North West England.

Fergus elaborated on the emotional toll, stating that keeping Venables behind bars would provide “peace of mind” for his mother and the family. “It’s about protecting others too,” he added, echoing concerns raised by child safety advocates. This perspective aligns with ongoing campaigns by the Bulger family, who have lobbied for policy changes to prevent similar situations, including stricter parole criteria for serious offenders.

The case’s enduring legacy is evident in legislative and societal shifts. The tragedy prompted the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999, which imposed restrictions on media reporting of juvenile cases to protect young participants. It also fueled debates on the age of criminal responsibility, which remains at 10 in England and Wales—a point of contention for reformers seeking to raise it. Public petitions, including one with over 200,000 signatures in the early 1990s, underscored the national outcry and demand for systemic improvements in child protection.

In the years since, the family has navigated a complex landscape of media portrayals and legal battles. Documentaries such as the 2023 release Lost Boy: The Killing of James Bulger have revisited the story, featuring interviews with Denise and Michael Fergus. These productions aim to honor James’s memory while highlighting the family’s resilience. Michael has spoken about the “spare chair” at family gatherings—a symbol of the void left behind—and how it shapes holidays and milestones.

Ralph Bulger’s 2019 legal challenge against Venables’ anonymity further illustrates the family’s pursuit of transparency. Although the courts upheld the injunction to safeguard lives, it spotlighted frustrations over perceived leniency. Denise Fergus has voiced disappointment over not being notified of Venables’ recalls, advocating for better communication in such cases. As of 2025, with the 32nd anniversary approaching, these efforts continue, with Fergus emphasizing prevention: “We fight so no other family goes through this.”

Social media has both amplified and complicated the narrative. Viral AI-generated images in 2024 claiming to depict the perpetrators’ current appearances led to platform removals and renewed calls for restraint. Experts like Dr. Emily Carter from the University of Liverpool warn that algorithms can perpetuate unverified claims, potentially retraumatizing survivors. In March 2024, a parliamentary debate on a petition with 213,000 signatures sought a public inquiry into case management, though the government maintained that current reviews are sufficient.

For Michael Fergus, the passage of time has not softened his resolve. Now in his early 30s, he balances his career with quiet support for his mother’s foundation, focusing on positive change rather than dwelling solely on the past. “James would be proud of the work we’re doing,” he reflected in the 2023 interview. His unyielding position—”They will never be forgiven”—serves as a testament to familial loyalty and the depth of loss that defies easy reconciliation.

The Bulger story remains a touchstone for discussions on grief, justice, and redemption. As Venables’ next parole hearing looms—potentially in late 2025—family members like Fergus prepare to voice their opposition, ensuring James’s legacy informs decisions. In a world quick to move on, their steadfastness reminds us that some bonds, once severed, leave echoes that resonate for generations.

Advocacy groups praise the family’s endurance. The J4M Foundation, under Denise’s leadership, has expanded to offer counseling and legal aid, helping dozens of families annually. Michael’s involvement, though behind the scenes, adds a personal layer, bridging the gap between past pain and future safeguards.

Looking ahead to October 2025, with no major parole developments reported, the focus shifts to remembrance events planned for the 32nd anniversary. Fergus has hinted at contributing to a new awareness campaign, aiming to educate on child safety in public spaces—a direct nod to the shopping center origins of the tragedy.

Ultimately, Michael Fergus’s words encapsulate a journey of unwavering commitment. “Forgiveness isn’t mine to give,” he said simply. In honoring his brother, he honors the innocence that was lost, turning personal sorrow into a force for communal good. The Bulger family’s story, marked by resilience amid unrelenting challenge, continues to shape dialogues on how society responds to profound loss.