28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, Sam Locke Interview

Hi Sam, could you introduce the character of Jimmy Fox that you play in the saga? How will he evolve in the plot?

Hello, it’s a pleasure to talk with you. I play Jimmy Fox, one of the Jimmy Cult members led by Sir Lord Jimmy Crystal. Jimmy Fox, like the other cult members, is heavily indoctrinated by Jimmy Crystal. The cult and the way it operates is his entire way of life.

I think he has some sense of moral awareness that what he’s doing, and who he has become, represents the epitome of evil. But there’s also a strange sense of safety he feels within the group, in its brutality and structure.

My character has his own specific arc. Over the course of the story, we see him develop a vendetta with another character. Fox feels that the group’s security has been breached by someone he doesn’t believe is worthy. That growing suspicion and resentment begins to disrupt his sense of normality and pushes him to act on impulse.

From 28 Days Later to 28 Years Later and the upcoming sequel, scheduled for release on 15 January 2026, how have things changed, and what common elements of the horror genre transcend generations?

The world of 28 Years Later definitely feels bigger, more vast and more expansive. While the first film in the franchise was brutal and gritty, it also felt claustrophobic and uncomfortable in the best possible way.

Now, with Alex penning a trilogy, the story naturally had to open up, and it has. From the first instalment of this new chapter, we’re introduced to characters who bring optimism and broader perspectives. That said, the brutality and darkness have remained constant across the generations this franchise has spanned.

28 Years Later Part One balances gore, survival and grit with an exploration of love and family, which brings moments of light. But in Part Two, The Bone Temple, we really return to the franchise’s darker roots, perhaps even pushing further. It explores the evil nature of humanity when hope is stripped away and people are driven by delusion.

Is there a memory or anecdote from the cast or production that you can share with fans?

I have such fond memories of working on The Bone Temple, ones I’ll cherish for the rest of my life. One moment that really stands out was filming a scene around a table in a farmhouse.

On one take, I decided to ad-lib a line because it felt right in the moment. Afterward, Jack O’Connell asked me to throw in another ad-lib on the next take because he found it funny. I did it again, and at that point in the scene we were meant to be laughing anyway, but I looked over and Jack was genuinely laughing. I really hope that take made the cut.

Will there be a sequel to 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple?

There are plans in place for a third instalment, and the intention is very much to complete the trilogy. The Bone Temple and its final act really set things up in an exciting way, so audiences will have to watch to see how everything transitions into part three.

Who is Sam Locke in everyday life? Do you have a favourite dish or a hobby you’re passionate about?

I’m a relatively normal guy. I’m quite outgoing and extroverted, and very passionate about the things I care about. I’m a huge Liverpool fan and try to follow them whenever I can, often watching matches with my grandfather or meeting friends at the pub. I’d love to get to Anfield more often, though I did manage to catch two great games last season.

I’m also really into streetwear fashion and enjoy experimenting with different styles and brands. It’s how I feel most comfortable expressing myself.

You were also one of the stars of the drama series The Way. What memories do you have of that production?

The Way was a brilliant experience and such an important moment in my career so far. It was a project that placed real emphasis on championing Welsh talent, with so much of the cast being Welsh.

Having Michael Sheen leading the project made it even more special. He’s a Welsh legend and someone I’ve always looked up to. You can really feel his influence throughout the show. It was also a privilege to work with Sophie Melville. As it was my first large-scale acting job, she really took me under her wing and guided me through the process. I’m incredibly grateful to her and to the whole team for the opportunity.

What are Sam Locke’s upcoming projects?

Whilst I can’t speak with certainty about what’s next, I’m really focused on the work and continuing to grow as an actor. I’m lucky to be having some exciting conversations, but for me it’s always about finding the right story and the right people. I just want to keep challenging myself and entertaining audiences.