Sam Neill

Sir Nigel John Dermot 'Sam' Neill (September 14, 1947 – July 13, 2026) was a New Zealand actor and businessman. Born in Omagh, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, to an English mother and a father born in New Zealand, his family relocated to the South Island of New Zealand in 1954. He attended boarding schools and universities at Canterbury and Victoria before embarking on a five-decade career that included appearances in more than 150 films and television shows. Neill is perhaps best known for his starring role in Jurassic Park and received nominations for three Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards.

Early life

Neill was born on September 14, 1947, in Omagh, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. His mother was Priscilla Beatrice (Ingham), who was English, and his father was Dermot Neill, who was born in New Zealand. The family moved to the South Island of New Zealand in 1954. He received his education at boarding schools and attended universities at Canterbury and Victoria.

Career

Over a career spanning five decades, Neill appeared in more than 150 films and television shows. He is perhaps best known for his starring role in Jurassic Park. His acting work earned him nominations for three Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards. Beyond acting, Neill was a businessman and a wine grower with an Alex Paddocks property near Alexandra in New Zealand.

Honours

Neill held the titles KNZM and OBE.

Personal life

Neill died on July 13, 2026.