Sam Neill: key obituary facts
Is Sam Neill dead? Yes. Sam Neill died on July 13, 2026, at age 78.
Cause of death: Sam Neill's cause of death has not been publicly confirmed.
What was Sam Neill known for?
He was a New Zealand actor (1947–2026).
More about Sam Neill
Born: 14 September 1947.
Place of birth: Omagh.
Place of death: Sydney.
Gender: male.
Occupation: winegrower, film actor, television actor, film director, director, screenwriter, film producer, actor.
Nationality: New Zealand, United Kingdom, Ireland.
Education: University of Canterbury, Victoria University of Wellington, Medbury School, Christ's College, Christchurch.
Awards: Officer of the Order of the British Empire, Distinguished Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, honorary degree, AACTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, Sitges Grand Honorary Award, honorary doctor of the University of Canterbury.
Years active: 1969–2026.
Sam Neill, the New Zealand actor known for leading roles in film and television, died on July 13, 2026, aged 78.
Born Nigel John Dermot Neill in Omagh, he moved with his family to Christchurch in 1954 and later studied at the University of Canterbury and Victoria University of Wellington. His screen career began in 1969 and brought recognition with Sleeping Dogs in 1977, followed by major roles in My Brilliant Career, The Final Conflict, Possession, Dead Calm and The Hunt for Red October.
On television, he was nominated for Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe awards for Merlin and also drew Golden Globe attention for Reilly, Ace of Spies and One Against the Wind. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 1991 for services as an actor.