'Jurassic Park' star Sam Neill dies at 78

Sam Neill, the acclaimed New Zealand actor whose career spanned more than five decades and included iconic roles in Jurassic Park, Peaky Blinders, and dozens of critically acclaimed films, has died. He was 78.

Neill's family announced his death in a statement posted to his official social media accounts late Sunday, saying he died Monday, July 13, in Sydney, Australia.

"It is with immense sadness that the whānau of Sam Neill share the news of his passing," the statement read. According to the family, Neill died peacefully while surrounded by loved ones.

His death was described as sudden and unexpected. The family noted, however, that Neill had remained cancer-free before his passing and expressed gratitude to the staff at St. Vincent's Private Hospital in Sydney for their care.

The statement added that additional details would be released at a later time and asked for privacy as the family mourns.

Neill became an international star portraying paleontologist Dr. Alan Grant in Steven Spielberg's 1993 blockbuster Jurassic Park. He later reprised the role in several sequels, including Jurassic Park III and Jurassic World Dominion, cementing his place as one of the franchise's most recognizable figures.

Beyond dinosaurs, Neill built one of the most versatile acting careers of his generation. His film credits included The Piano, Dead Calm, The Hunt for Red October, Event Horizon, The Horse Whisperer, and Possession. He also earned praise for his television performances, including Merlin and Peaky Blinders.

Throughout his career, Neill received multiple Golden Globe nominations and Primetime Emmy recognition, while earning acclaim for both blockbuster films and independent productions.

In recent years, Neill has been open about his battle with cancer, sharing updates with fans while continuing to work in film and television.