Sam Neill’s Ex Says Late Actor Was ‘Pretty Sick for the Last Couple of Weeks’ Due to ‘Compromised’ Immune System

Sam Neill, the acclaimed actor renowned for his role in “Jurassic Park,” has passed away at the age of 78, as confirmed by his family on July 13 in Sydney. His unexpected death has drawn an outpouring of tributes and expressions of grief from fans and colleagues alike.

In a recent radio interview, Laura Tingle, a journalist and Neill’s former partner from 2018 to 2021, provided insight into his declining health before his death. Appearing on Sydney Mornings, Tingle stated that Neill had faced significant health challenges over the past five years, including battles with cancer.

Tingle acknowledged that while she would leave detailed discussions regarding his health to his family, she expressed that Neill had been enduring various forms of cancer treatment during this time. “He had a lot of chemotherapy and immunotherapy,” she explained, adding that whilst he had achieved remission from a rare blood cancer diagnosed in 2022, the toll on his immune system was considerable. “I think his poor body sort of got a bit exhausted,” she remarked.

Despite his health struggles, Neill maintained a positive outlook. In April 2023, he assured the media that he was cancer-free. However, Tingle noted that Neill had been unwell in the weeks leading up to his death, indicating that although he had fought valiantly, the battle had ultimately taken its toll.

Returning to the subject of his character and passion for his craft, Tingle reflected on a previous interview in which Neill expressed annoyance at the thought of dying, highlighting his desire to continue working. “He loved to work,” she remarked, noting that being on film sets defined much of his life. “He used to say, ‘I’m addicted to working,’ and I think he was,” she said, emphasising that this was more than a simple enjoyment of his profession—it was a profound aspect of his identity.

On social media, Tingle shared heartfelt tributes in the form of photographs and videos from their time together, paired with John Hiatt’s song “Long Time Comin’.” Her emotional tribute featured a simple caption: “Sweet Dreams darling Sam,” reflecting the affection they had shared.

Neill’s family acknowledged the unexpected nature of his passing, which they described as sudden yet dignified. They expressed their profound gratitude towards the staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital, who provided exceptional care during his final days. Their statement requested privacy as they navigated this immense loss while also confirming that Neill had passed away surrounded by family.

Sam Neill’s career spanned decades, with memorable performances in major films such as “The Hunt for Red October” and “The Piano.” He was married to Noriko Watanabe, a makeup artist, from 1989 to 2017, and they shared one daughter, Elena. Neill also had a son, Andrew, whom he reconnected with in 2014, and another son, Tim, from a previous relationship with actress Lisa Harrow.

The legacy left by Neill is significant, as he is remembered not only for his roles on-screen but also for his indomitable spirit and love for the arts. His dedication to acting was evident, and he was a beloved figure in film, lauded for his contributions to the industry.

As fans come to terms with his passing, tributes and remembrances of Neill’s contributions continue to emerge, ensuring that his work and life will be celebrated and remembered for generations to come.