Sam Neill: From Dinosaurs to Cancer Survivor

Actor Sam Neill, known for his roles in "Jurassic Park" and "Dead Calm," is reflecting on his extensive career.

Born in Northern Ireland and raised in New Zealand, Neill gained recognition early in films like "My Brilliant Career." He later achieved Hollywood stardom with appearances in "The Hunt for Red October," "The Piano," and the cult classic "Event Horizon."

In recent years, the 78-year-old actor has focused on director-driven projects, portraying characters with a "gruff, weather-beaten warmth" in films such as "Hunt for the Wilderpeople" and "Rams." His television work includes darker characters in "The Tudors" and "Peaky Blinders."

Neill is set to return to blockbuster cinema in "Godzilla x Kong: Supernova." He also recently revisited "Dead Calm," a 1989 thriller co-starring Nicole Kidman, which is being released in 4K.

Beyond acting, Neill manages a New Zealand farm populated by animals named after celebrities, including Susan Sarandon the sheep. He also owns a winery and is actively campaigning against a proposed goldmine near the property.

In 2023, Neill published his memoir, "Did I Ever Tell You This?", revealing his battle with stage-three blood cancer. He is now in remission and has expressed a desire to live longer to see his grandchildren grow and his farm mature.