Cillian Murphy has joined numerous industry figures in paying tribute to Sam Neill, who passed away at the age of 78. The Irish actor shared his memories of his ‘Peaky Blinders’ co-star, reflecting on their professional collaboration and lasting friendship.According to Deadline, Murphy issued a statement remembering Neill for his warmth, humour and exceptional acting ability. The two actors shared the screen as Tommy Shelby and Chester Campbell during their time on the crime drama series. “Like everyone who knew and worked with Sam, I admired him and adored him in equal measure. He was one of the kindest, funniest and gentlest people, and one of the finest actors. RIP,” Murphy said in his tribute.
The lasting friendship between the co-stars
Neill and Murphy maintained their friendship long after their two seasons on ‘Peaky Blinders’ concluded. The New Zealand-born actor, who was originally from Northern Ireland, was among the first to celebrate Murphy’s Academy Award triumph in 2024. “I could not be more thrilled, as you see. So well deserved. 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.
Tributes from the ‘Peaky Blinders’ production team
The team behind the acclaimed crime series issued a statement expressing their devastation at Neill’s passing. “Sam’s portrayal of Chester Campbell is one for the ages. A villain who is despicable, petty, manipulative, but also charismatic, vulnerable, funny, and supremely entertaining to watch. Sam was one of the key forces that got ‘Peaky Blinders’ off to a running start, for which we will be forever grateful. Our love and thoughts are with his family,” the production said.
Tributes from fellow collaborators
Beyond the ‘Peaky Blinders’ community, Neill’s passing prompted reflections from prominent figures in the film industry. Director Steven Spielberg, with whom Neill worked on multiple major film productions, shared his own tribute. “Sam was exceptionally collaborative. It was a stretch for him to play a character who acted as though children were messy and smelly because this was the opposite of the loving father he was to his children,” Spielberg said.
Cillian Murphy reflected on his friendship with Sam Neill, saying he admired and adored the acclaimed actor in equal measure.Image credit (Instagram)
The director elaborated on their professional relationship across multiple projects. “I adored making all the films with him. Along with Laura Dern and Jeff Goldblum, we will always have our film family, and Sam will never be forgotten by us or his many millions of fans around the world,” Spielberg concluded.Sam Neill, who was born in Northern Ireland but became known as a New Zealand actor, passed away in Sydney. His contributions to television and film over his extensive career have left a lasting impression on both the industry and audiences worldwide.