Sam Neill death: ‘Jurassic Park,’ ‘Peaky Blinders’ stars share emotional reaction

Sam Neill’s longtime friend and Jurassic Park costar Laura Dern has finally penned a heartfelt tribute hours after his death.

Earlier, the news broke on July 13 after his family announced on Instagram about his passing on Monday at the age of 78.

Sam, who is widely known for his role as Dr Alan Grant in the blockbuster Jurassic Park franchise, death has prompted outpouring of tributes from his close friends and costars.

One of them has been Laura who speaks her heart out in her statement to People magazine.

“Sam was my beloved lifetime friend. He showed me the depths of loyalty, protectiveness and love always with the driest of wit,” reflects the 59-year-old actress, who plays Alan’s love interest and colleague in the 1993 movie.

Laura describes Sam as a “a true and noble gentleman, wrapped up in my dream leading man”.

“I will love you forever Dr. Alan Grant,” she concludes.

Another key member, Jurassic Park director Steven Spielberg also remembers Sam by posting a throwback picture from the movie and extols his acting in the movie.

“I adored making all the Jurassic movies with him. Along with Laura Dern and Jeff Goldblum, we will always have our Jurassic family and Sam will never be forgotten by us or his many millions of fans around the world,” states the legendary moviemaker in an Instagram post.

Later, Peaky Blinders Cillian Murphy pays emotional tribute to the late actor, who played police officer Major Chester Campbell in the first two seasons of the hit 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,” says the Oppenheimer actor.

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