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Sam Neill Dies at 78, Prompting Tributes from Peaky Blinders and Colleagues

His sudden, family-confirmed death has prompted widespread praise for his defining role on Peaky Blinders and for a long film career.

Overview

  • Neill’s family announced on Monday, July 13 that he died in Sydney at age 78, describing the death as sudden and unexpected and thanking staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital.
  • The family’s statement said Neill had remained cancer-free and that he died surrounded by loved ones.
  • Peaky Blinders producers posted that they were “devastated” and called Neill’s portrayal of Inspector Chester Campbell one of the performances that helped launch the series.
  • Co-stars and filmmakers including Cillian Murphy, Joe Cole, Finn Cole, Karl Urban and Colin Trevorrow published personal tributes that praised Neill’s craft, kindness and influence.
  • Neill’s career spanned generations with landmark roles from Jurassic Park to Peaky Blinders, a legacy that critics and colleagues say brought him new audiences and lasting industry respect.