Screen icon Sam Neill, best known for his role as Dr. Alan Grant in the blockbuster "Jurassic Park" franchise, has died at the age of 78. His family confirmed the news in a statement released on his Instagram account on Monday, July 13, 2026.
"It is with immense sadness that the whānau of Sam Neill share the news of his passing on Monday 13th July, in Sydney Australia," the statement read. "Sam was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that has characterised his whole life."
The family noted that the loss was sudden and unexpected, but they were comforted by the fact that Neill remained cancer-free. They expressed deep gratitude to the staff at St Vincent's Private Hospital in Sydney for their exceptional care.
Further details are expected to be released later, but the family has requested privacy during this period of immeasurable loss. Neill's career spanned decades, cementing his status as a prolific and cherished actor in numerous classic films.