New Zealand actor Sam Neill, best known for his role as Dr. Alan Grant in the Jurassic Park film series, passed away on Monday at the age of 78. His family said his death was sudden and unexpected, adding that he had remained cancer-free following treatment for blood cancer.
In a statement shared on Neill’s official Instagram account, the family said, “The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer free.” Neill died in Sydney, where his family also expressed gratitude to the hospital staff who cared for him.
Neill had announced in April that he was cancer-free after undergoing treatment for stage-three blood cancer. Over a career spanning more than five decades, he earned international acclaim through performances in films including Jurassic Park, The Piano, The Hunt for Red October and television series such as Peaky Blinders.
Tributes poured in from leaders and members of the film fraternity following the news of his demise.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Neill fought illness with “dignity, humour and conviction” and described him as someone who would be “much mourned and long remembered.”
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called Neill “one of the greats”, saying his work over more than 50 years helped take New Zealand stories to audiences around the world and contributed significantly to the country’s film industry.
Former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark paid tribute to Neill, describing him as a legendary actor who brought global recognition and pride to New Zealand through his distinguished career. Australian actor Magda Szubanski said she was “devastated” by the news and remembered Neill as a dear friend.
(Inputs from Reuters)
