Sam Neill has sadly passed away at the age of 78. He's best known for his roles in Jurassic Park and Peaky Blinders. His family confirmed his passing with a statement.
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"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 said, via The Sun. "The loss was sudden and unexpected, but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer- free. They would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at St Vincent's Private Hospital for their incredible care."
The statement continued, noting that more details about Sam's death will follow.
"More details will be shared later, but for now, on behalf of the family, we ask that you respect their privacy as they navigate this immeasurable loss."
Sam was diagnosed with blood cancer in 2022. However, he underwent treatment, including Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, which is a newer form of cancer treatment. Sam began the CAR treatment after his chemotherapy had stopped producing results.
"I was at a loss, and it looked like I was on the way out, which wasn't ideal obviously," he said at the time.
Fortunately, things turned around for him with his new treatment.
"I've just had a scan just now and there is no cancer in my body, that's an extraordinary thing," he told 7News. "I'm very, very excited that this can happen."
Tributes Pour in for Sam Neill
Once news broke of Sam's death, tributes began to flood social media.
"Sam Neill starred in so many beloved Australian stories and he earned a special place in Australian hearts," Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote on X. "Wry and dry, thoughtful and laconic, Sam fought illness with the same dignity, humour and conviction that gave strength to his every performance. He will be much mourned and long remembered. May he rest in peace."
Sam's fans also shared their shock at the news of his passing.
"This is devastating! Such a brilliant actor and a warm, funny, delightful man," one user wrote. "Terrible news."
"A genuinely sad loss to television and cinema - a fabulously talented, versatile actor. Rest in power," another wrote on X.
Currently, there are no details regarding Sam's impending funeral. That information will likely remain private for family and close friends.
