The acclaimed New Zealand actor, best known for playing Dr. Alan Grant, leaves behind a legacy spanning more than five decades in film and television.
SYDNEY: One of Hollywood’s most recognizable faces and the star who guided audiences through the world of dinosaurs in Jurassic Park, Sam Neill has died at the age of 78.
The acclaimed New Zealand actor’s family confirmed that he passed away on Monday, July 13, in Sydney, Australia.
In a statement, the family said: “It is with immense sadness that the whānau (family) of Sam Neill share the news of his passing on Monday, 13 July, in Sydney, Australia.”
They added that Neill was surrounded by his loved ones 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,” the statement said.
The family also expressed their gratitude to the staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital for their care and requested privacy as they navigate their loss.
Neill rose to international fame for his portrayal of the intelligent and dedicated paleontologist Dr. Alan Grant in Steven Spielberg’s 1993 blockbuster Jurassic Park. He later reprised the beloved role in several sequels, including Jurassic World Dominion (2022).
Over a career spanning more than five decades, Neill built an impressive body of work across film and television, becoming one of New Zealand’s most celebrated actors.
The actor revealed earlier this year that he was cancer-free after undergoing treatment for stage three blood cancer, which he was diagnosed with in March 2022.
He had undergone CAR T-cell therapy and had spoken publicly about his recovery in recent months.
At the time of his death, Neill had two upcoming films in development The Last Resort and Godzilla x Kong: Supernova. Both projects are expected to be released posthumously.
Widely admired for his talent, warmth and enduring screen presence, Sam Neill leaves behind a remarkable cinematic legacy that will continue to inspire generations of film lovers around the world.
