Welsh Actor Sam Locke Opens Up About Hollywood Journey and Co-Star Wisdom
Despite battling a winter cold during our interview, Sam Locke radiates the enthusiasm of a young actor whose career is rapidly ascending. The 24-year-old from Merthyr Tydfil is preparing for his second major Hollywood role in the dystopian horror sequel 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, just two years after graduating from university.
From Welsh Valleys to Hollywood Horror
Locke brings his distinctive Welsh background and gritty determination to his portrayal of Jimmy Fox in the upcoming film. The dark sequel follows protagonist Spike as he becomes entangled with a disturbing cult inspired by Jimmy Savile, led by the unsettling Jimmy Crystal, played by Jack O'Connell. Locke's character is one of seven "Jimmys" within this sinister group, marking his most significant cinematic role to date.
The actor previously appeared in BBC's The Way and sci-fi series Itopia, but acknowledges this horror franchise represents a major step forward in his career trajectory.
Working Alongside Hollywood Heavyweights
"Working with stars like Ralph Fiennes, Cillian Murphy, Jack O'Connell, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson was phenomenal," Locke reveals. "It proved to me that I deserved to be there and gave me real confidence. I stepped up my game significantly."
Although he didn't share scenes with Oscar-winner Cillian Murphy, Locke emphasizes the value of getting to know these established actors both on and off set.
Pivotal Advice from Co-Star Jack O'Connell
One particularly memorable interaction occurred with co-star Jack O'Connell during filming. "I'd done about four takes of one particular scene, all quite similar," Locke recalls. "Jack came up to me before the fifth take and said, 'You've given them four of what they want – start playing around a bit more.'"
This simple suggestion unlocked a new spontaneity in Locke's approach to acting. "He encouraged me to have fun with it, to find the beauty and enjoyment even in portraying these pretty horrible characters. That advice has stayed with me ever since."
Behind-the-Scenes Normalcy with A-Listers
Locke shares an anecdote that helped demystify working with established stars. While filming in Newcastle, he visited a local pub to watch his beloved Liverpool Football Club play. "Jack O'Connell joined me, and it was just so... normal," he says. "It almost took me aback and made me realize there was no need to be starstruck."
Navigating the Physical Demands of Filmmaking
The previous installment in the franchise, directed by Danny Boyle, required extensive physical preparation. "We did a week of stunt training," Locke explains. "It allowed us to bond as a tight-knit group, though I did hurt my knee on day four after throwing myself off 10-foot scaffolding pieces."
For the new film, director Nia DaCosta has intensified the horror elements. "She really steps it up on the gore," Locke notes. "This installment enters a much darker realm than the previous film, bringing the trilogy back to a pretty disturbing place that I think audiences will appreciate."
Overcoming Small-Town Mentality
Reflecting on his Welsh upbringing, Locke describes it as "idyllic" but acknowledges challenges. "You can be oppressed by that small-town mentality," he admits. "When I mentioned studying drama at school, I'd get picked on. There were historically certain industries people went into, and that was it."
He credits his family's unwavering support for helping him break this mold. "My parents, my nan – they've always been so supportive of me following my dreams. They've kept secrets when needed and picked me up when necessary. They mean the world to me and keep me grounded."
Life Beyond the Camera
Outside acting, Locke describes himself as "a big nature lover and a very inconsistent skateboarder." He enjoys hiking with friends and admits to being "an outdoorsy person" who "beats myself up when I have a lazy day, which I shouldn't do."
Celebrating Welsh Representation in Hollywood
As 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple prepares for its UK cinema release on January 14, Locke plans to celebrate with both a premiere attendance and a potential friends-and-family screening at his local cinema. "Ultimately, it's a celebration not only for me but of a Welsh voice in a huge project," he emphasizes. "It'll be a big party either way!"
The young actor's journey from Welsh valleys to Hollywood horror sets demonstrates both his dedication to craft and the importance of supportive relationships in navigating the film industry's challenges and opportunities.
