The death of Sam Neill (1947-2026) has shaken the film world. The New Zealand actor, who became famous primarily for his legendary role in "Jurassic Park", has died at the age of 78. Just in April, he had reported that after his long battle with cancer, no disease was currently detectable. Only a few hours after news of his death broke, numerous colleagues and friends are saying goodbye with moving words.

"I love you, dear Sam. You hero. You legend", wrote Australian actress Toni Collette (53) on Instagram alongside a photo together. "Our wonderful friend. You will be missed so much already", she added. Neill should rest in peace, wherever he may be now. British actress Anna Friel (50) responded to the post with five heart emojis.

Alongside several photos of Neill, British "Saltburn" star Richard E. Grant (69) wrote that he had known his colleague for around three decades and finally got to stand in front of the camera with him in 2018 for the film "Palm Beach". "An officer and a gentleman in the truest sense", he honors Neill. He also helped him "through a very difficult time in my life".

Grateful for the friendship

Director Colin Trevorrow (49), who filmed "Jurassic World: Ein neues Zeitalter" with Neill, also honored the deceased on Instagram as a "deeply soulful" person. "He was a friend and colleague during a difficult time, and his strength gave us all strength", Trevorrow wrote. It was something special to be able to become friends with a legend. He will always be grateful for that.

Numerous celebrities also responded to the Instagram post with which Neill's family confirmed his death. Singer and actress Kylie Minogue (58) said goodbye there with the words "Vale Sam". The phrase is frequently used in Australia as a respectful farewell greeting for the deceased.

"Farewell, Sam! Thank you for everything you gave in your life and your career - your humor, your heart and your wisdom. You were loved and will be missed", wrote actor Luke Hemsworth (45) in the comments. "Lost" actress Emilie de Ravin (44) said goodbye with the emojis of a dove and a broken heart. "The Boys" star Karl Urban (54) honored Neill as an inspiration and "national treasure" who gave so much to New Zealand and the world.

Roles for eternity

Universal Pictures studio honors Neill on the platform X as a "Jurassic legend". Meanwhile, the team behind "Peaky Blinders" shows itself "devastated". On the series' Instagram account it says that Neill's portrayal of Chester Campbell is "for eternity". He brought to life the character of a villain who was "despicable, petty and manipulative, but at the same time charismatic, vulnerable, funny and highly entertaining to watch".

Leading politicians are also honoring the deceased actor. "Sir Sam Neill was one of the greats", wrote New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon (55) on X. Neill had begun his career at a time when there was hardly a film industry of its own in New Zealand. Over more than five decades, he had carried stories from his homeland out into the world and played a decisive role in making the industry one of the country's most important cultural assets.

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (63) recalled that Neill had participated in numerous popular Australian productions. In doing so, he had won a special place in the hearts of many people. His memory will remain alive for a long time to come.