‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘Peaky Blinders’ Star Sam Neill Dies at 78
Legendary New Zealand actor Sam Neill, best known for his roles in Jurassic Park and Peaky Blinders, has died in Sydney, Australia, at the age of 78, his family announced.
“It is with immense sadness that the whānau of Sam Neill share the news of his passing,” the statement, posted to the actor’s Instagram account, read. The Māori word “whānau” refers to extended family and community.
According to the family, Neill’s death was sudden and unexpected. They added that he had remained cancer-free following his battle with a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer.
Neill had previously spoken openly about his health struggles and revealed in April that he was cancer-free.
“Sam was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that has characterized his whole life,” his family said, while expressing their deepest gratitude to the medical staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital for their care.
The family said further details would be shared at a later time and asked the public and media to respect their privacy as they mourn the loss of the beloved actor.