Sam Neill of 'Jurassic Park' celebrates being cancer-free: 'I was on the way out'

Sam Neill has joyfully announced he is cancer-free after spending five challenging years fighting stage 3 blood cancer.

The iconic “Jurassic Park” actor, 78, conveyed his wonderful news during a chat with Australian network 7News, which aired on Sunday.

He talked about how he underwent chemotherapy—a grueling experience—to sustain his life until it unfortunately lost its effectiveness.

“I was feeling hopeless and it seemed like my time was nearing its end, which of course was far from ideal,” he remembered.

Neill subsequently participated in a groundbreaking clinical trial for CAR-T therapy where his blood cells were genetically reprogrammed.

According to the American Cancer Society, CAR-T therapy is a custom form of immunotherapy that helps the immune system to identify and attack cancer cells.

“I recently had a scan and there is no trace of cancer in me, it’s truly remarkable,” Neill expressed.

He added that he was eager to get back to what he loves, adding with enthusiasm, “I think it’s time for a new movie.”

Neill elaborated on his advanced cancer treatment in an Instagram post Monday, advocating for innovative cancer therapies.

“We were stepping into unknown territory. Nobody knew what to anticipate,” he noted about his trial. “I was the first to try it, and they referred to me as ‘Patient Zero.’”

Neill mentioned he was still coming to terms with the amazing shift in his cancer journey.

“However, it is not magic but exceptional science,” he penned. “And it’s thanks to many dedicated individuals who care deeply about their work and those they treat. I am deeply thankful.”

The New Zealand actor confessed to feeling uneasy discussing his cancer journey but clarified his aim is to see more trailblazing treatments reach those in dire need.

Neill supports the Snowdome Foundation, a charity that funds research and clinical trials to expedite new treatments and remedies for Australian blood cancer sufferers.

Neill opened up about his cancer diagnosis in his 2023 memoir, “Did I Ever Tell You This?”. In it, he shared how he first noticed swollen glands while promoting “Jurassic World Dominion” in March 2022.

He soon received a diagnosis for angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma.

In an October 2023 discussion with “Australian Story,” Neill expressed he was “prepared” for the end and wasn’t “in any way worried” about it.

“I’m aware I have it, but I’m not overly concerned about it,” he said regarding his lymphoma.

“It’s beyond my control. If you can’t manage it, don’t dwell on it,” he added.