New Zealand actor Sam Neill, best known internationally for his role in 'Jurassic Park', died suddenly on Monday aged 78 after recovering from cancer, his family said.
“The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer free,” a statement posted on Neill's Instagram page said.
Neill died in Sydney, where his family thanked a private hospital for its care. In April, the actor had said he was cancer-free after treatment for stage-three blood cancer.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Neill, saying the actor faced illness with the “dignity, humour and conviction” that marked his performances.
"Wry and dry, thoughtful and laconic, Sam fought illness with the same dignity, humour and conviction that gave strength to his every performance. He will be much mourned and long remembered. May he rest in peace," Albanese said in a social post.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called Sir Sam Neill “one of the greats,” saying he helped take New Zealand stories to the world over more than five decades.
"Sir Sam Neill was one of the greats. He started out when there was barely a film industry in this country to speak of. For more than fifty years he took New Zealand stories to the world and his talents helped make our film industry into what it is today – one of our greatest cultural exports," Luxon posted on social media.
Former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark said, "RIP Sam Neill, legendary NZ actor who brought great pride to our country through many starring roles on screen & wide international recognition."
Australian actor Magda Szubanski said, "I'm just absolutely devastated. Darling Sam. I really don’t have any words right now. I'm in complete shock. Last time we spoke he was going so well. My heart goes out to his family and all who love him - and there are so many of us. Vale my darling friend."
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