New Zealand actor Sam Neill, best known for his role as paleontologist Alan Grant in Jurassic Park, has died at 78.His death was sudden and unexpected, as announced by his family on his social media page.Neill, who had been battling angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma since 2023, passed away in Sydney, surrounded by loved ones.A cancer-free at the time of his death, the cause remains unspecified.

A multifaceted actor, Neill transitioned from art films to blockbusters, appearing in iconic roles such as Holly Hunter’s husband in The Piano and the Antichrist in Omen III.His career spanned over five decades, contributing to New Zealand’s film industry growth.Beyond acting, he was a vintner under the Two Paddocks brand and authored a memoir.

His legacy includes iconic films like Dead Calm and My Brilliant Career, as well as TV roles in Peaky Blinders and Sally Hemings: an American Tragedy.Neill’s modest personality and dedication to storytelling left a lasting impact on cinema.New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon praised him as a national treasure, highlighting his role in elevating the country’s film industry.Survived by four children and eight grandchildren, Neill’s work continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences worldwide.