Actor Sam Neill passed away on Monday in Sydney, Australia, at the age of 78. His family described the death as sudden and unexpected, though he had remained cancer-free after earlier treatment.
Neill's family announced the news on Instagram, stating he died surrounded by family and with the dignity that characterised his life. They expressed gratitude to staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital and requested privacy.
The Northern Ireland-born, New Zealand-raised actor was best known for roles including Dr. Alan Grant in Jurassic Park and Major Chester Campbell in Peaky Blinders. His career spanned more than five decades and included films such as The Piano and The Hunt for Red October.
Tributes came from co-stars including Cillian Murphy, who called him one of the finest actors, and Laura Dern, who described him as her beloved lifetime friend. Nicole Kidman, Steven Spielberg, and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon also paid respects.
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Neill was worth $18 million at the time of his death, amassed from acting, his Two Paddocks winery, and property holdings. His final films, Godzilla x Kong: Supernova and The Last Resort, are scheduled for release in 2027.
