Jurassic Park actor Sam Neill dead at 78

New Zealand actor Sam Neill, best known for playing Dr Alan Grant in Jurassic Park, has died at the age of 78.

Neill died suddenly in Sydney on Monday while surrounded by his family, according to a statement posted on his Instagram account. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

"The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer free," his family said.

Neill was diagnosed in 2022 with stage-three angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, a rare form of blood cancer. He publicly revealed the diagnosis in 2023 and announced in April 2026 that he was cancer-free after undergoing treatment.

Regarded as one of New Zealand’s most talented and versatile actors, Neill’s career spanned more than five decades. Alongside the Jurassic Park films, he appeared in Jane Campion’s The Piano and played Damien Thorn in The Omen III.

Just weeks before his death, Neill was nominated for a Silver Logie for Best Lead Actor in a Drama for his role in The Twelve.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Neill on social media, saying the actor had "starred in so many beloved Australian stories” and “earned a special place in Australian hearts."

“He will be much mourned and long remembered. May he rest in peace,” Albanese said.