Actor Sam Neill, known for his iconic roles in films such as "Jurassic Park" and "The Piano," has died at the age of 78. His family confirmed his passing in a statement released Monday, describing it as "sudden and unexpected."
Neill died in a Sydney hospital surrounded by his family. The statement expressed deep gratitude to the staff at St. Vincent's Private Hospital for his care and requested privacy for the family during their time of grief. Further details are expected to be released later.
Just months prior to his death, Neill had shared that he was in remission after a prolonged battle with a type of blood cancer. He publicly disclosed his diagnosis in 2023, having been diagnosed the previous year after noticing swollen glands. He learned of his stage-three blood cancer while promoting "Jurassic World Dominion" in 2022.
His passing has prompted a wave of tributes from colleagues and friends. Australian actress Magda Szubanski, who starred alongside Neill in the 2019 film "Ride Like a Girl," shared a tearful video tribute on Instagram. Szubanski, who herself has been undergoing treatment for a rare form of lymphoma, expressed shock at the news, having recently spoken with Neill when he was cancer-free and optimistic about life.
"He was just a one-off, such a talented, classy, beautiful, wry, warm human being. Really a lovely man," Szubanski said, visibly distressed. "I will miss you very much."
Other notable figures, including actors Richard E. Grant and Catherine Alcorn, and television host David Campbell, also shared their condolences and fond memories of Neill.
Known for his versatile career spanning decades, Neill also starred in "Peaky Blinders" and "The Tudors." His distinctive performances and warm on-screen presence left a significant impact on the film industry.