Rabat – New Zealand actor Sam Neill, best remembered for portraying Dr. Alan Grant in the “Jurassic Park” series, has died at the age of 78.
Neill’s family announced his passing in Sydney, Australia, on July 13 via his official Instagram account, referring to his loved ones and wider community with the Māori term “whānau” and describing his death as “sudden and unexpected”.
The family stated he was surrounded by loved ones in his final moments and passed peacefully with the dignity he carried throughout his life. They also expressed gratitude to the medical team at St Vincent’s Private Hospital.
The New Zealand actor had spent recent years battling a rare and aggressive blood cancer. He announced in April that he was cancer-free, and his family said he remained so at the time of his death.
“The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer-free,” his family wrote.
Over the course of his career, Neill established himself as one of the country’s most recognizable actors, earning global fame for his portrayal of Dr. Alan Grant throughout the “Jurassic Park” franchise, alongside memorable roles in “The Hunt for Red October” and “In the Mouth of Madness”.
His filmography also includes acclaimed titles such as “The Piano” and “Peaky Blinders”.
For his part, Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also offered condolences, describing Neill as “sharp-witted and reflective,” while he confronted his illness with the same grace and humor he brought to the screen.
