Jurassic Park Star Sam Neill Fearlessly Defies Death in Brave Blood Cancer Battle

Sam Neill. Don Arnold/WireImage

Jurassic Park actor Sam Neill, 76, recently discussed his views on death in light of his battle with stage 3 blood cancer. In an interview with Australian Story, published on October 15th, Neill expressed that he is not afraid of death. He had previously revealed his diagnosis of angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, a rare form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that specifically impacts T cells.

Neill has been in remission for 12 months since switching to a rare anti-cancer drug. To maintain his health, the New Zealand native takes the medication every two weeks indefinitely. However, he acknowledges that the days following the treatments are emotionally challenging. While his doctors have cautioned him about the drug's eventual effectiveness decline, he is mentally prepared for that outcome.

Neill's hematologist, Dr. Orly Lavee, expressed the need to consider a third line option for him in the future. She acknowledged the emotional burden of constantly anticipating that moment, stating, "It is challenging to carry that weight every day." This isn't the first instance where Neill has discussed his contemplations on mortality.

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"I have no fear of death, but it would certainly bother me," remarked Neill during an interview with The Guardian in March 2022. "After all, I have a deep desire to witness the growth and transformation of all these beautifully designed terraces, flourishing with olive trees and cypresses. I yearn to be present and observe as they reach their full maturity. Additionally, I have the utmost joy in watching my precious grandchildren grow into adulthood. However, the act of dying itself holds no significance for me."

Neill, despite not fearing death, confesses that retirement is something that truly terrifies him. During an interview with Australian Story, the three-time Golden Globe winner jokingly expressed his horror at the mere thought of retirement. Prior to the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes that commenced earlier this summer, Neill was actively involved in shooting an adaptation of Liane Moriarty's novel "Apples Never Fall," portraying the character Stan Delaney. Additionally, he is slated to return in season two of "The Twelve," reprising his role.

The actor, who has received two Emmy nominations, commenced his acting journey in the 1970s. His most iconic role is that of Dr. Alan Grant in the Jurassic Park series; however, he has also appeared in various other productions such as Merlin and One Against the Wind.