Sam Neill opens up about his fearless outlook on life following health battle

Having faced a life-changing battle with cancer, beloved actor Sam Neill is embracing each day with a positive outlook and a newfound appreciation for life.

After his serious health scare, Neill has emerged with a refreshed perspective, now openly discussing how his journey has made him fearless about death and more focused on living fully in the present moment.

Neill previously shocked his loving fans in 2023, when he disclosed details of his battle with blood cancer in his memoir, Did I Ever Tell You This?

After concerns for the star’s well-being began to grow, the Jurassic Park star took to social media at the time to assure fans he was doing fine.

Fortunately, Neill went into remission in 2024, praising the “strides” made in modern medicine that allowed him to receive such “wonderful care” during his treatment.

Now in a recent interview with RNZ, the 77-year-old shared more about his evolving perspective on life following his health ordeal.

“I’ve got no fear of dying, at all but you’re never entirely sure what happens next, and there’s no guarantees,” he said.

“I know people for whom this is a great fear, but it doesn’t worry me at all. I just want to live longer, because life’s good, and I feel very blessed with the life I’ve had. I’ve sort of rambled between things, just sort of muddled along, but most of it’s been a great pleasure.”

Neill’s optimism and renewed outlook on life have been evident in recent interviews, including one with Summer Weekends, where he shared that he’s feeling “good” these days and making the most of every opportunity.

“I’m doing my exercises – well, not as many as I probably should be. I’m a little bit lazy in that regard. But now I feel good and optimistic and looking forward to a long future,” he said.

“One of the things that these issues teach you is life is short so make the most of it and that’s what I’m doing.”