The actor Sam Neill, best known for playing Dr Alan Grant in Jurassic Park, has died at the age of 78. His family announced the news, describing his death in Sydney as “sudden and unexpected”, adding that he was “surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that has characterised his whole life”.
Tributes poured in from political leaders and fellow actors. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called Neill “one of the greats”, saying he “took New Zealand stories to the world”. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote on X that Neill “earned a special place in Australian hearts”. Former New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern described him as “such a thoughtful, curious, and decent person” and “another incredible kiwi”.
“Sam Neill, Jurassic Park star, dies suddenly aged 78; tributes from leaders and co-stars.”
Laura Dern, who starred alongside Neill in Jurassic Park, said in a statement: “He showed me the depths of loyalty, protectiveness and love always with the driest of wit. He was a true and noble gentleman.” Australian actress Toni Collette wrote: “I love you, dear Sam. You hero. You legend. You sweetheart. Our great friend. You are already missed so very much.”
Neill had been treated for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a blood cancer, and revealed in March 2023 that he was undergoing chemotherapy. He later said the disease was in remission but he would require monthly chemotherapy for the rest of his life. In April 2026, a scan showed no cancer, and his family confirmed he “remained cancer free” at the time of his death.
Born in Northern Ireland and raised in New Zealand, Neill’s career spanned more than five decades. Beyond Jurassic Park, he appeared in films such as The Piano, The Hunt for Red October, Dead Calm and Event Horizon, and in the BBC drama Peaky Blinders. His family thanked hospital staff and asked for privacy as they navigate “this immeasurable loss”. The loss of a national treasure leaves a void in New Zealand’s cultural landscape, but his legacy as a versatile and beloved actor endures.