28 Years Later Stars Say Dr Kelson Is the Most Important Character

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple hits cinemas on 14 January, and stars are praising Dr Ian Kelson as the key figure in the zombie-apocalypse series.

Chi Lewis-Parry, who plays Samson, said Kelson’s humanity and empathy set him apart in a world of brutal violence. “Kelson is incredibly important to Samson,” he told LADbible. “Without Kelson, there is no Samson.”

Ralph Fiennes’ character has survived alone in the wilderness while interacting with infected humans, showing compassion and curiosity where most would only see danger.

“Kelson never rejects anyone,” Lewis-Parry added. “He welcomes everybody, and fortunately, that includes Samson.” Their bond is portrayed as the most humane part of the story.

Fiennes explained that Kelson’s isolation and curiosity drive him to try building a relationship with Samson. “He’s lonely… and when he learns Samson can communicate, he wants a friend,” he said.

The relationship even includes lighter moments, like the pair dancing together to Duran Duran’s Rio, suggesting that there may be remnants of humanity within the infected.

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple continues to explore the aftermath of the series while highlighting Kelson’s central role in shaping the story’s moral and emotional heart.