Beloved actor and Jurassic Park star Sam Neill passed away on July 13, 2026, rather unexpectedly. The 78-year-old announced in April that he was cancer-free, much to the delight of those who loved him. Sam’s family shared the heartbreaking news of his death on social media.
Videos by InspireMore
“Sam was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that has characterised his whole life. The loss was sudden and unexpected, but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer-free,” the family shared in a statement on social media. “They would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital for their incredible care.”
Friend Steven Spielberg Spoke Out Following Sam Neill’s Death
Steven Spielberg shared a statement with Variety following Sam Neill’s sudden death.
“I owe a debt of gratitude to Roger Donaldson, Gilliam Armstrong, Graham Baker and Phillip Noyce for casting Sam Neill in the roles in which he was so brilliant that brought him to my attention and led to his playing Dr. Alan Grant in ‘Jurassic Park,'” Steven Speilber wrote.
“Sam was exceptionally collaborative,” he added. “It was a stretch for him to play a character who acted as though children were messy and smelly because this was the opposite of the loving father he was to his children.”
Many people offered condolences to Sam Neill’s family following their announcement.
“Such sad news. I worked with Sam on Merlin and not only was he a brilliant actor but he was such a wonderful person as well. Thank you for kindness and humour fabulous Sam,” a message reads.
This person agreed, writing, “Such a shock – loved by so many – I’ll be cracking two paddocks tonight.”
This story’s featured image is by Murray Close/Getty Images
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.
