Sam Neill, the versatile actor known for battling prehistoric beasts in the Jurassic Park series, reveals in a new interview that his real-life fears center less on his current fight with blood cancer and more on the prospect of retirement.
Facing Blood Cancer with Bravery
In a recent conversation with Australian Story, Neill opened up about his ongoing battle with non-Hodgkin blood cancer. He was diagnosed last year and is presently in remission due to a new drug regimen. His doctors, however, caution that the drug’s efficacy will eventually wane.
Neill shows a remarkable lack of concern about his diagnosis, stating, “I know I’ve got it, but I’m not really interested in it. It’s out of my control. If you can’t control it, don’t get into it.”
What Truly Scares Sam Neill
Rather than expressing fear about his condition or the inevitability of death, Neill says he finds the concept of retirement truly terrifying. In his words, he is “not remotely afraid” of dying, describing it merely as “annoying.” The concept of ceasing to work is what “fills [him] with horror.”
Keeping Busy in Trying Times
Before industry strikes led to production halts, Neill was involved in two notable projects. The first was an adaptation of Liane Moriarty’s novel Apples Never Fall, co-starring Annette Bening. The second was the continuation of the mini-series The Twelve.
Neill has also been busy off-screen. Earlier this year, he released his memoir, Did I Ever Tell You This?, in which he first publicly discussed his diagnosis.
A Man Who Finds Strength in His Craft
Sam Neill’s words offer a unique perspective on the fears that can often accompany a cancer diagnosis. His focus remains steadfastly on his craft, showing that for some, the work itself can be a type of therapy. As he battles with health issues, Neill continues to captivate audiences, and it’s clear he has no plans to stop anytime soon.
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