Jurassic Park actor Sam Neill no more

Veteran actor Sam Neill, best known for playing Dr. Alan Grant in the Jurassic Park franchise, died at the age of 78. His family confirmed that he passed away on Monday (July 13) in Sydney, Australia, surrounded by his loved ones.

According to his family, Neill's death was sudden and unexpected. They also shared that he had remained cancer-free following treatment for blood cancer and thanked the medical team that cared for him during his final days.

In a statement shared on Neill’s official Instagram account, his family said, “It is with immense sadness that the whānau (family) of Sam Neill share the news of his passing on Monday 13th July, 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,” they added. After the announcement of his passing, several tributes poured in.