Legendary New Zealand actor Sam Neill has died at the age of 78. He passed away on Monday in Sydney, Australia, where he was surrounded by his family.
Neill’s family shared the news in a statement posted on his Instagram page, using the Māori word “whānau,” meaning extended family. The family said, “the loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer free.” They also said he “passed with the dignity that has characterized his whole life.” The cause of death was not shared.
“It is with immense sadness that the whānau [family] of Sam Neill share the news of his passing on Monday 13th July, in Sydney Australia. Sam was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that has characterised his whole life. The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer free. They would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital for their incredible care. More details will be shared later, but for now, on behalf of the family, we ask that you respect their privacy as they navigate this immeasurable loss.”
Neill had been diagnosed with angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, a rare and aggressive blood cancer, in 2022, and underwent chemotherapy while writing his memoir. In April this year, he announced he was cancer-free, giving fans hopeful news after his public health battle.
Neill was best known for playing paleontologist Dr. Alan Grant in the “Jurassic Park” films, and also won praise for his role in “The Piano.” His career included other well-known films like “Dead Calm,” “My Brilliant Career,” and “A Cry in the Dark,” where he twice worked alongside Meryl Streep.
Tributes poured in from around the world. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called him “one of the greats,” saying, “for more than fifty years he took New Zealand stories to the world.” Fellow actor Karl Urban also paid tribute, calling him an inspiration to many.
Neill leaves behind a rich legacy in film and television, remembered fondly by fans and colleagues across the globe.
