Renowned actor Sam Neill, best known for his iconic role in Jurassic Park, has shown remarkable courage and resilience in the face of a tough battle with stage three cancer. The 76-year-old actor opened up about his experience in an interview with Australian Story, sharing the ups and downs of his cancer journey.
The actor first revealed his cancer diagnosis in March when he published his memoir, “Did I Ever Told You?” In it, he spoke candidly about his battle with angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma and the subsequent treatments he underwent. Neill’s journey as someone who has graced the silver screen for decades has resonated with fans and cancer survivors alike.
After his diagnosis, Neill embarked on a regimen of chemotherapy. It was a challenging journey, as chemotherapy often is, but he tackled it with the same determination and spirit that made him a beloved figure in the world of cinema. The actor spoke about the grueling nature of the chemotherapy sessions and how they left him feeling like he’d been through a boxing match. It was an uphill battle, but Neill faced it head-on.
The actor began receiving chemotherapy to try to treat angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma after receiving the diagnosis.
After Neill’s chemotherapy stopped working on his cancer three months into treatment, doctors tried to treat him with an unusual cancer drug.
Although Neill needs IVs every two weeks, the medication seems to be helping him; has been in remission for a whole year.
He told Australian Story that the days following his treatment were “very bleak and depressing”, leaving him feeling like he’d gone ten rounds with a boxer.
Although aware that the therapies are “keeping [him] alive”, Neill is determined not to dwell too much on the disease.
“I know I have, but I don’t really care,” he replied. “I have no control over it. Avoid it if you can’t control it.”
Neill understands that he now has ten days to enjoy his time before the next infusion when the effects of his drugs wear off.
“Ten days,” he answered, “in which I could not have felt more alive or pleased to breathe and look at the blue sky.”
Neil’s doctors have informed him that the medication will eventually run out, so he’s prepared for that.
He acknowledged that dying would be “annoying” because he still had a lot of work to do, but after thinking extensively about mortality following his diagnosis, he is now “not in the least” afraid of dying.
But what about retirement? This, according to Neill, “fills [him] with dread.”
The actor began writing his memoirs because he could not continue performing during chemotherapy.
“I’m starting to think I should write some of this down because I’m not sure how long I have to live,” he said. “I was running against time.
Neill began filming an adaptation of Liane Moriarty’s book Apples Never Fall while in remission and decided to continue his career, but production was halted due to the American actors’ and writers’ strike.
Neill is also filming The Twelve, a miniseries, now in its second season.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Neill remains committed to his craft. While in remission, he resumed his acting career and accepted roles in projects such as “Apples Never Fall,” an adaptation of Liane Moriarty’s novel. However, production was halted due to the American actors’ and writers’ strike, another setback for the resilient actor.
As Neill continues his battle with cancer, he is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of resilience. His willingness to share his journey openly is not only a source of inspiration but also a reminder to cherish every moment of life. Faced with uncertainty, he chooses to focus on the present and the beauty of life.
Sam Neill’s journey is a profound reminder that life is a precious gift and every day is worth celebrating. It serves as an inspiration to all who face challenges and adversity, showing that even in the most trying circumstances one can find courage, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of existence. Sam Neill’s story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power to embrace life no matter the circumstances.