New Zealand actor Sam Neill, best known for his roles in *Jurassic Park* and *Peaky Blinders*, passed away on Sunday in a Sydney hospital from pneumonia, after a successful fight against non‑Hodgkin lymphoma.
Agent Philip Grenz confirmed the cause of death, noting months earlier that Neill had entered remission and remained cancer‑free following treatment with CAR‑T therapy.
Over the past year Neill had filmed four projects back‑to‑back, all of which are set for release in the coming months, including collaboration on future franchises.
The actor was described by his agent as a fiercely private man who disliked a fuss and will be honoured with a private family memorial at his New Zealand farm once a date is set.
Tributes poured in from co‑stars, public officials and fans. Actress Laura Dern called him a “beloved lifetime friend”, Toni Collette celebrated him as a “hero, legend and sweetheart”, and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described him as “one of the greats.”
Neill’s career spanned over five decades, earning more than 150 screen credits including *The Piano*, *The Hunt for Red October*, *Dead Calm*, *Event Horizon* and *Peaky Blinders*. His last film role was in *The Fox* (2025) and his final TV appearance was in Netflix’s *Untamed* (2025). Post‑humous appearances are planned for *Godzilla x Kong: Supernova* and *The Last Resort* (2027).
In his 2023 memoir *Did I Ever Tell You This?*, Neill openly discussed his cancer diagnosis, treatment, and personal outlook on life, sharing that he was “not afraid of dying” and enjoyed living fully.
He is survived by his four children and eight grandchildren, who will carry forward his legacy of resilience and artistic brilliance.
