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We have tragic news to report out of Hollywood today:
Sam Neill — the beloved actor best known for his starring role in Jurassic Park — has passed away at the age of 78.
News of Neill’s passing comes courtesy of a statement from loved ones who described themselves as his “whanau” — the Maori word for extended family.
“It is with immense sadness that the whānau of Sam Neill share the news of his passing,” said the statement posted to the actor’s Instagram page.
“The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer free.”
Neill had been battling a rare form of blood cancer but announced in 2023 that he was cancer-free.
“They would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital for their incredible care,” continued the statement from Neill’s loved ones.
“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.”
No cause of death has been revealed at this time.
Countless friends and fans have paid tribute to Neill on social media, including New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
“For more than fifty years he took New Zealand stories to the world and his talents helped make our film industry into what it is today — one of our greatest cultural exports,” he said on X.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed those sentiments, explaining that Neill had “earned a special place in Australian hearts.”
“Wry and dry, thoughtful and laconic, Sam fought illness with the same dignity, humor and conviction that gave strength to his every performance,” he said on X.
In addition to his work in the Jurassic Park franchise, Neill appeared in numerous other films, including The Hunt For Red October and The Piano.
He had recurring roles in several prominent television shows, including Peaky Blinders, appearing as Major Chester Campbell on the show’s first two seasons.
Sam Neill is survived by his four children. Our thoughts go out to his loved ones during this enormously difficult time.
Sam Neill Cause of Death: ‘Jurassic Park’ Star Was 78 was originally published on The Hollywood Gossip.