Actor Sam Neill has died in Sydney, Australia, his family announced in a social media statement on Monday.
According to the statement shared on Neill’s official Instagram account, the 78-year-old passed away surrounded by his family and “with the dignity that has characterised his whole life”.
His family described the loss as sudden and unexpected, adding that they were grateful he had remained cancer-free until his passing.
They also expressed their appreciation to the staff of St Vincent’s Private Hospital for the care provided to the veteran actor.
“It is with immense sadness that the whānau 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 statement said.
“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.”
The family said further details would be shared at a later date and requested privacy as they mourn.
Neill was best known for his roles in the Jurassic Park film franchise, The Hunt for Red October, The Piano and Peaky Blinders, earning international recognition over a career spanning more than five decades.
