Key Points

Samuel French, known for his roles in Killers of the Flower Moon and Fear the Walking Dead, has passed away at 45 after a year-long battle with cancer. His final performance was in the crime thriller Towpath, where he played Detective Bernard Crooke. Director Paul Sinacore praised French's dedication and intensity, calling him an extraordinary actor. He is survived by his daughter, parents, and brothers.

Key Points: Killers of the Flower Moon Actor Samuel French Dies at 45

  • Samuel French battled cancer for a year before passing
  • His final role was in crime thriller Towpath
  • He appeared in Killers of the Flower Moon and Fear the Walking Dead
  • He is survived by his daughter and family
3 min read

'Killers of the Flower Moon' actor Samuel French passes away at 45

Samuel French, known for roles in Killers of the Flower Moon and Fear the Walking Dead, passes away after battling cancer at 45.

"Samuel carried a fire for acting that burned in every frame — unfiltered, fearless, and alive. — Paul Sinacore"

Washington, May 13

Actor Samuel French, who appeared in 'Killers of the Flower Moon', 'Fear the Walking Dead', and 'Texas Rising' has passed away. He was 45.

He died in Waco, Texas, following a year-long battle with cancer.

French was born on January 26, 1980, and his family relocated to Clifton, Texas, when he was three. He graduated from high school there before moving to Austin and, eventually, Dallas, where he earned early acting credits as "Ben" on shows like "Texas Rising" and "Fear the Walking Dead. " He also acted in films like "Pegasus: Pony With a Broken Wing," "The Pro Bono Watchman," and the 2024 crime thriller "Blood Dried Hands," reported Variety.

His final performance was as Detective Bernard Crooke in the crime drama/thriller "Towpath," written and directed by Paul Sinacore. "Samuel was a dear friend and an incredible actor," Sinacore said in a statement on Instagram. "Together we were on an extraordinary journey, giving everything we had to realize a shared creative vision. 'Towpath' wouldn't exist without him, and the incredible intensity he brought to the role of Detective Bernard Crooke set the tone for the entire film. Samuel carried a fire for acting that burned in every frame -- unfiltered, fearless, and alive," as per the outlet.

"He gave himself completely to the work, and it showed. I am deeply saddened by his loss and only wish he could have seen the final cut. He was one of a kind, and he will remain in our hearts forever. My heart goes out to his family, and especially to his daughter -- he loved her deeply and spoke of her often with pride and tenderness," reported Variety.

He was also seen in 'Killers of the Flower Moon', which stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro and Lily Gladstone in the lead roles. The film takes place at the turn of the 20th century when oil brought a fortune to the Osage Nation, who became some of the richest people in the world overnight. The wealth of these Native Americans immediately attracted white interlopers, who manipulated, extorted, and stole as much Osage money as they could before resorting to murder.

French is survived by his daughter Madison and her mother Melinda Acosta; as well as French's parents Thomas and Evelyn; and his brothers Andy and Danny.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
So young to leave us! 😢 I remember him from Fear the Walking Dead - he had such a strong screen presence. Cancer is truly merciless. May his soul rest in peace and his family find strength during this difficult time.
P
Priya M.
Haven't seen his films but the way his director speaks about him shows what a dedicated artist he was. The industry has lost a gem. His poor daughter - losing a father so young is heartbreaking. Om Shanti 🙏
A
Arjun S.
His role in Killers of the Flower Moon was small but impactful. The film itself was brilliant in showing historical injustices - something we Indians can relate to given our colonial past. RIP Samuel French.
N
Neha T.
Cancer doesn't discriminate between rich or poor, famous or common man. 45 is no age to go. We really need more awareness about early detection in India too. My condolences to his family.
V
Vikram J.
While it's sad, I wish Indian media gave equal coverage to talented regional actors who pass away young. Our own film industry loses so many bright stars that don't get this kind of international attention. Just an observation.

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