Legendary Kiwi actor Sam Neill dies aged 78

New Zealand actor Sir Sam Neill, best known for his roles in 'Jurassic Park', 'The Piano', 'Hunt for the Wilderpeople' and more, has died at the age of 78.

His family announced via social media this evening that he passed away in Sydney, Australia.

"Sam was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that has characterised his whole life."

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.

"More details will be shared later, but for now, on behalf of the family, we ask that you respect their privacy as they navigate this immeasurable loss."

It was only April this year when the actor revealed he was cancer-free after almost five years of battling stage-three blood cancer.

In an interview with ABC News in 2023, the actor said that during treatment for angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, he was confronted with his mortality, which encouraged him to write his autobiography, 'Did I Ever Tell You This?'

"I started to look at my life and realise how immensely grateful I am for so much of it," Neill said.

"But I've done some good things. Not all of them have been good. We all have regrets. But I think I can live with myself and die by myself, okay," he laughed at the time.

The 78-year-old UK-born star had his acting break in 1977 NZ thriller 'Sleeping Dogs', before starring in numerous blockbusters, including 'The Hunt For Red October' and 'The Piano'. It was his starring role as Dr Alan Grant in the 1993 Steven Spielberg hit 'Jurassic Park' which placed him among the Hollywood greats.

He would reprise his role in Jurassic Park III (2001) and Jurassic World Dominion (2022).

The actor was also the owner of Two Paddocks winery, located in Central Otago, and frequently documented a wholesome life on the farm.

Sir Sam Neill is survived by his four children and eight grandchildren.