Sam Neill, the celebrated actor best known for playing Dr. Alan Grant in Steven Spielberg’s epic franchise Jurassic Park, has died at the age of 78. A statement on his official Instagram confirmed the news of his passing on July 13. No cause of death was disclosed.
“The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer-free,” the statement reads.
Neill became one of film and television’s most recognizable actors globally for more than five decades. Beyond his role in Jurassic Park, Neill also starred in the Academy Award-winning historical romance film The Piano in 1993 and Taika Waititi’s acclaimed coming-of-age film Hunt for the Wilderpeople in 2016, where he played the gruff but lovable Hec Faulkner. He also had cameos in both of Waititi’s Marvel movies, Thor: Ragnarok and Thor: Love and Thunder.
Neill was equally active on television, with memorable roles in historical drama The Tudors, crime series Peaky Blinders, and the sci-fi thrillerAlcatraz. Earlier this year, Neill revealed that he was cancer-free following treatment for a rare form of blood cancer back in April 2026.
Frequently Asked QUESTIONS
Sam Neill was a New Zealand actor best known for portraying Dr. Alan Grant in Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park franchise. He enjoyed a film and television career spanning more than five decades.
Sam Neill died at the age of 78. His family confirmed his passing on July 14 through a statement posted on his official Instagram account.
Neill starred in the Jurassic Park films, The Piano, and Hunt for the Wilderpeople. On television, he appeared in The Tudors, Peaky Blinders, and Alcatraz.
Earlier in 2026, Neill shared that he was cancer-free following treatment for a rare form of blood cancer.
No cause of death was announced. Information will be shared through Neill’s social media accounts.
Recommended Video
