Cillian Murphy joins many industry figures in paying tribute to: Sam Neillwho has died aged 78. The Irish actor shared his memories of his ‘Peaky Blinders’ co-star, reflecting on their professional collaboration and enduring friendship.According to Deadline, Murphy released a statement remembering Neill for his warmth, humor and incredible acting ability. The two actors shared the screen as Tommy Shelby and Chester Campbell during their time in the crime drama series. “Like everyone who knew and worked with Sam, I admired and adored him in equal measure. He was one of the kindest, funniest and gentlest people, and one of the best actors. RIP,” Murphy said in his tribute.
The enduring friendship between the co-stars
Neill and Murphy continued their friendship long after their two seasons on ‘Peaky Blinders’. The New Zealand-born actor, who hails from Northern Ireland, was one of the first to celebrate Murphy’s Academy Award win in 2024. “I couldn’t be more excited, as you can see. Very good. We had a great catch-up. And a Bloody Mary. Or two. What an actor, what a performance and what a movie,” Neill wrote in response to Murphy’s Oscar win.
Credits from the ‘Peaky Blinders’ production team
The team behind the acclaimed crime series released a statement expressing their devastation at Neill’s death. “Chester Campbell’s portrayal of Sam is one for the ages. A villain who is despicable, petty, manipulative, but also charismatic, vulnerable, funny, and a lot of fun to watch. Our love and thoughts are with his family,” the producer said.
Honors from fellow partners:
Beyond the ‘Peaky Blinders’ community, Neill’s passing prompted reflections from prominent figures in: film industry. Director: Steven Spielbergwho has worked with Neill on several major film productions, shared his own tribute. “Sam is incredibly cooperative. It’s a stretch for him to play a character who acts like a child who is messy and smelly because it’s the opposite of the loving father he is to his children,” said Spielberg.
Cillian Murphy has reflected on his friendship with Sam Neill, saying he admires and adores the acclaimed actor in equal measure. Image credit (Instagram)
The director explained their professional relationship in several projects. “I adored making all the films with him. With Laura Dern and Jeff Goldblum, we will always have our film family, and Sam will never be forgotten by us or by his many millions of fans around the world,” concluded Spielberg.Sam Neill, who was born in Northern Ireland but became known as an actor in New Zealand, has died in Sydney. His contributions to television and film in his extensive career have left a lasting impression on the industry and audiences around the world.