In brief
New Zealand star Sam Neill, famous for roles in Jurassic Park and Peaky Blinders, died from pneumonia in a Sydney hospital at age 78. His agent, Philip Grenz, confirmed the cause and noted that the actor had been cancer‑free following CAR‑T therapy to combat non‑Hodgkin lymphoma. Neill’s death was described by his family as sudden and unexpected, and tributes poured in from co‑stars, politicians and fans worldwide. The actor left a legacy of over 150 screen credits and is expected to appear posthumously in upcoming films.
Sam Neill, 78, dies from pneumonia
Actor Sam Neill, celebrated for iconic roles in Jurassic Park and Peaky Blinders, passed away on Monday in a Sydney hospital, confirming his death from pneumonia.
The 78‑year‑old actor’s family described his death earlier this week as sudden and unexpected, with his longtime agent Philip Grenz issuing a statement to set the record straight. He confirmed that Neill had been cancer‑free after a CAR‑T therapy victory over non‑Hodgkin lymphoma announced in April.
Before his demise, Neill had filmed four projects back‑to‑back, all slated for release in the coming months. He also had 150+ screen credits spanning film, television, and stage.
Tributes poured in from peers and public figures, with Peaky Blinders co‑star Laura Dern calling him a beloved lifetime friend, and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon labeling him “one of the greats.”}
