Sam Neill, the Northern Ireland-born New Zealand actor best known for playing Dr. Alan Grant in the Jurassic Park franchise and Major Chester Campbell in the first two seasons of Peaky Blinders, has died aged 78. He passed away on Monday in Sydney, Australia, surrounded by family.
Tributes from Peaky Blinders Cast and Creators
The official Peaky Blinders social media page paid tribute, stating: “We are devastated to hear that Sam Neill has died. Sam’s portrayal of Chester Campbell is one for the ages. A villain who is despicable, petty, manipulative, but also charismatic, vulnerable, funny, and supremely entertaining to watch. Sam was one of the key forces that got Peaky Blinders off to a running start, for which we will be forever grateful.” Co-star Joe Cole simply posted: “Rest in peace big dog.”
Cancer Battle and Final Years
Neill had been battling an aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, but announced in April 2026 that he was cancer-free. His family’s statement noted: “The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer free.” They thanked the staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital for their care.
Political and Celebrity Tributes
Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern wrote: “It was just a few weeks ago that I had the profound joy of sitting with Sam Neill… He was such a thoughtful, curious and decent person. We’ve lost another incredible Kiwi.” Current Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called Neill “one of the greats” who “took New Zealand stories to the world.” Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese added: “Sam Neill starred in so many beloved Australian stories… He will be much mourned and long remembered.”
Hollywood and Co-Star Remembrances
Director Colin Trevorrow, who worked with Neill on Jurassic World Dominion, said: “Sam Neill was a deeply soulful and beautiful man… Forever grateful.” Richard E. Grant called him “an officer and a gentleman in the truest sense.” Karl Urban described him as “an inspiration for many… a national treasure.” Toni Collette said: “Hero, legend, sweetheart and great friend. You are already missed so very much.” Daisy Ridley shared a photo with broken heart emojis, and Rufus Sewell noted: “Lucky to have known him. A great actor and a lovely man.”
Career Highlights and Personal Life
Born in Omagh, Northern Ireland, Neill’s breakthrough came in 1993’s Jurassic Park, a role he reprised in Jurassic Park III and Jurassic World Dominion. He earned acclaim for The Piano, The Hunt for Red October, and Hunt for the Wilderpeople. He also appeared in The Tudors, The Simpsons, and Alcatraz. Neill owned a farm and winery, Two Paddocks, in New Zealand’s Central Otago region, established in 1993. He is survived by four children and eight grandchildren.
