Remembering Samuel French: Actor from "Killers of the Flower Moon" dies at 45
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For many fans of film and television, the news of Samuel French’s passing has come as a heartfelt shock.
Known for his compelling presence in Killers of the Flower Moon and Fear the Walking Dead, French was widely regarded as a rising star in Hollywood.
He passed away on May 9 in Waco, Texas, at the age of 45 after a quiet and courageous battle with cancer.
As tributes continue to pour in from across the industry, many are reflecting on his journey—from Texas stages to sharing the screen with legends—and the lasting impact of his work.
French didn’t follow the typical path to Hollywood.
Raised in Texas, his love for performing started in local theater and community productions.
Those close to him often said he had “a fire for acting”—a phrase that became a defining part of his identity both on and off the screen.
He began with smaller television appearances, including roles in Texas Rising and The Mark of a Killer.
But it was his role as Ben in Fear the Walking Dead (season 6) that first introduced him to a broader audience.
French stood out for his authenticity and emotional depth—even in brief scenes.
A breakout moment with Martin Scorsese
According to The Hollywood Reporter, French’s major break came through a casting call in his hometown of Waco.
Director Martin Scorsese reportedly saw something special in his audition and cast him as CJ Robinson, an undercover agent in Killers of the Flower Moon.
It was a moment that changed everything.
On his first day on set, he filmed scenes opposite Robert De Niro—an experience that could rattle even seasoned actors.
But French delivered a performance that earned praise from Scorsese himself, who told him, “No one could have played Robinson as well as you did.”
Also read: The beat fades: Blondie drummer Clem Burke dies at 70
A legacy built on dedication
Film producer Paul Sinacore, who worked with French on the upcoming drama Towpath, described him as “a magnetic actor celebrated for his explosive performances and uncompromising dedication.”
French played Detective Bernard Crooke, a demanding role that required both historical nuance and emotional range.
“Towpath wouldn’t exist without him,” Sinacore shared.
French’s devotion to his craft was matched by his deep love for his family, especially his daughter.
In his final Instagram post, he celebrated winning Best Supporting Actor at the 2025 Cowpokes International Film Festival for his role in Monsters Within—a moment of pride that reflected his ongoing commitment to meaningful storytelling.
Also read: NBA player and Beach Boys brother Stan Love dies at 76—what fans are remembering most
More than a career
While his resume included Killers of the Flower Moon, Joe Haladin: The Case of the Missing Sister, Blood Dried Hands, and Cherry Town 2023, friends and colleagues remember him for more than just his credits.
“He gave himself completely to the work, and it showed,” Sinacore said.
“He was one of a kind, and he will remain in our hearts forever.”
French’s battle with cancer was kept private, but those close to him say he faced it with the same resilience that fueled his career.
Even as his health declined, he stayed active in the industry, bringing passion to every role.
Source: Instagram / samuelfrenchactor
Also read: Democratic congressman dies at 77 after battle with cancer
The mark he leaves behind
Samuel French’s story is a reminder that success isn’t always about fame or headlines.
Sometimes it’s about persistence, love for the craft, and the quiet power of inspiring others.
From local stages to working with icons, his path shows us that dreams are worth pursuing—no matter when or where you start.
He is survived by his daughter, family, and a community of peers who will miss him deeply.
His final performances in Towpath and Monsters Within are set to be released posthumously, offering audiences one more glimpse of his remarkable talent.
Read next: Reggae pioneer dies at 80—remembering the “gentle soul” who changed music forever
Were you moved by Samuel French’s performance in Killers of the Flower Moon or Fear the Walking Dead? Have you been inspired by someone who pursued their dreams later in life? Share your reflections in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
Let’s honor the life and legacy of Samuel French, a gifted artist whose passion lives on through the stories he helped bring to life.
Known for his compelling presence in Killers of the Flower Moon and Fear the Walking Dead, French was widely regarded as a rising star in Hollywood.
He passed away on May 9 in Waco, Texas, at the age of 45 after a quiet and courageous battle with cancer.
As tributes continue to pour in from across the industry, many are reflecting on his journey—from Texas stages to sharing the screen with legends—and the lasting impact of his work.
French didn’t follow the typical path to Hollywood.
Raised in Texas, his love for performing started in local theater and community productions.
Those close to him often said he had “a fire for acting”—a phrase that became a defining part of his identity both on and off the screen.
He began with smaller television appearances, including roles in Texas Rising and The Mark of a Killer.
But it was his role as Ben in Fear the Walking Dead (season 6) that first introduced him to a broader audience.
French stood out for his authenticity and emotional depth—even in brief scenes.
A breakout moment with Martin Scorsese
According to The Hollywood Reporter, French’s major break came through a casting call in his hometown of Waco.
Director Martin Scorsese reportedly saw something special in his audition and cast him as CJ Robinson, an undercover agent in Killers of the Flower Moon.
It was a moment that changed everything.
On his first day on set, he filmed scenes opposite Robert De Niro—an experience that could rattle even seasoned actors.
But French delivered a performance that earned praise from Scorsese himself, who told him, “No one could have played Robinson as well as you did.”
Also read: The beat fades: Blondie drummer Clem Burke dies at 70
A legacy built on dedication
Film producer Paul Sinacore, who worked with French on the upcoming drama Towpath, described him as “a magnetic actor celebrated for his explosive performances and uncompromising dedication.”
French played Detective Bernard Crooke, a demanding role that required both historical nuance and emotional range.
“Towpath wouldn’t exist without him,” Sinacore shared.
French’s devotion to his craft was matched by his deep love for his family, especially his daughter.
In his final Instagram post, he celebrated winning Best Supporting Actor at the 2025 Cowpokes International Film Festival for his role in Monsters Within—a moment of pride that reflected his ongoing commitment to meaningful storytelling.
Also read: NBA player and Beach Boys brother Stan Love dies at 76—what fans are remembering most
More than a career
While his resume included Killers of the Flower Moon, Joe Haladin: The Case of the Missing Sister, Blood Dried Hands, and Cherry Town 2023, friends and colleagues remember him for more than just his credits.
“He gave himself completely to the work, and it showed,” Sinacore said.
“He was one of a kind, and he will remain in our hearts forever.”
French’s battle with cancer was kept private, but those close to him say he faced it with the same resilience that fueled his career.
Even as his health declined, he stayed active in the industry, bringing passion to every role.
Source: Instagram / samuelfrenchactor
Also read: Democratic congressman dies at 77 after battle with cancer
The mark he leaves behind
Samuel French’s story is a reminder that success isn’t always about fame or headlines.
Sometimes it’s about persistence, love for the craft, and the quiet power of inspiring others.
From local stages to working with icons, his path shows us that dreams are worth pursuing—no matter when or where you start.
He is survived by his daughter, family, and a community of peers who will miss him deeply.
His final performances in Towpath and Monsters Within are set to be released posthumously, offering audiences one more glimpse of his remarkable talent.
Read next: Reggae pioneer dies at 80—remembering the “gentle soul” who changed music forever
Were you moved by Samuel French’s performance in Killers of the Flower Moon or Fear the Walking Dead? Have you been inspired by someone who pursued their dreams later in life? Share your reflections in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
Let’s honor the life and legacy of Samuel French, a gifted artist whose passion lives on through the stories he helped bring to life.
