New Zealand actor Sam Neill dies at age 78 after cancer recovery, family says

New Zealand actor Sam Neill died suddenly at age 78 on Monday after he recovered from cancer, his family announced.

Neill was surrounded by family when he passed away.

“It is with immense sadness that the whānau of Sam Neill share the news of his passing on Monday 13th July, in Sydney, Australia,” his family said in a statement shared on Neill’s Instagram page.

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New Zealand actor Sam Neill died suddenly at age 78 on Monday. (Manuel Romano/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

“The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer free,” his family added.

Neill “passed with the dignity that has characterized his whole life,” his family said.

The Jurassic Park actor announced in April he was cancer-free after undergoing treatment for stage-three blood cancer.

Sam Neill was surrounded by family when he passed away. (Manuel Romano/NurPhoto)

“I’ve just had a scan just now and there is no cancer in my body, that’s an extraordinary thing,” Neill said at the time. “I’m very, very excited that this can happen.”

The family said more details will be shared later, but asked that fans respect their privacy as they “navigate this immeasurable loss.”

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The Jurassic Park actor announced in April he was cancer-free after undergoing treatment for stage-three blood cancer. (Photo by Don Arnold/WireImage)

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In addition to his role as Dr. Alan Grant in the Jurassic Park franchise, Neill starred in The Portable Door, The Piano, The Hunt for October Red and Event Horizon, among others.

Reuters contributed to this report.