Cillian Murphy has joined numerous industry figures to pay tribute Sam Neillwho died at the age of 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 issued a statement remembering Neill for his warmth, humor 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 and adored him in equal measure. He was one of the kindest, funniest, gentlest people, and one of the greatest actors. RIP,” Murphy said in his tribute.
The lasting friendship between the co-stars
Neill and Murphy maintained their friendship long after they concluded their two seasons on “Peaky Blinders.” The New Zealand actor, originally from Northern Ireland, was among the first to celebrate Murphy’s 2024 Academy win. “Couldn’t be more excited as you can 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 ‘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, mean, manipulative, but also charismatic, vulnerable, funny and extremely entertaining to watch. Sam was one of the key forces that got ‘Peaky Blinders’ off the ground, which we will be eternally grateful for. Our love and thoughts are with his family,” the production said.
Tributes from fellow collaborators
Beyond the ‘Peaky Blinders’ community, Neill’s death prompted reflections from leading figures in the film industry. director Steven Spielbergwith 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 like the kids were messy and smelly because that was the opposite of the loving father he was to his kids,” Spielberg said.
Cillian Murphy has reflected on his friendship with Sam Neill, saying he admired and adored the acclaimed actor in equal measure. Image Credit (Instagram)
The director explained his professional relationship through multiple projects. “I loved making all the movies 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 rose to fame as a New Zealand actor, has died in Sydney. His contributions to television and film throughout his extensive career have left a lasting impression on both the industry and audiences worldwide.