Sam Neill Reveals Ongoing Battle with Blood Cancer and Optimism About the Future

Actor Sam Neill, known for his roles in the “Jurassic Park” series, disclosed earlier this year that he is maintaining a positive outlook after being diagnosed with angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, in 2022. Neill, aged 77, first noticed symptoms, specifically swollen glands in his neck, during the publicity tour for “Jurassic World Dominion.”

The New Zealand actor has been actively working despite his diagnosis. He stars in Liane Moriarty‘s drama series, portraying a former tennis coach named Stan. Neill also recently appeared in the Australian series “The Twelve,” which revolves around a murder trial. During this time, he underwent rigorous treatment but continues to appreciate life and his work. “It just meant that every second week it was a case of forget about the weekend because that would be a bit grim,” he shared in a recent interview.

In an October 2023 interview with ABC‘s “Australian Story,” Neill addressed fans’ concerns about his health, stating he is not afraid of dying, although he admits he finds it annoying given his unfinished personal pursuits. The actor emphasized, “I’d be annoyed because there are things I still want to do. Very irritating, dying. But I’m not afraid of it.”

Neill previously informed his followers he was in remission thanks to a new medication, following unsuccessful chemotherapy treatments. However, he acknowledged that doctors predicted this drug will eventually lose its efficacy, although he remains optimistic about future treatment alternatives. “There are all sorts of things that are happening with cancer these days. It’s a whole new ball game,” Neill expressed with hope.

Despite his health challenges, Neill has no intention of retreating from his acting career. He recently appeared on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” promoting his new series “Apples Never Fall,” where he shared amusing anecdotes about his decision to change his name from “Nigel John Dermot Neill” to “Sam.”

Neill revealed that writing a book was part of ensuring his family, including his children and grandchildren, would retain “a sense of me” after his passing. The actor expressed his desire to witness the progression of life around him, including his grandchildren’s growth, while simultaneously remaining unfazed by the prospect of death. “We built all these lovely terraces, we’ve got these olive trees and cypresses, and I want to be around to see it all mature,” he said.