Sam Neill, ‘Jurassic Park’ actor, dies at 78

'Jurassic Park' actor Sam Neill dies at age 78

New Zealand actor Sam Neill has died at age 78 on Monday after recovering from cancer, his family announced. Neill was known for playing Dr. Alan Grant in the "Jurassic Park" movies. 

Sam Neill, the actor best known for starring in Jurassic Park, has died at the age of 78.

Neill died Monday in Sydney, Australia, according to a statement posted on his Instagram page. Neill was recovering from cancer after undergoing treatment for stage-three blood cancer.

What they're saying:

"Sam was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that characterised his whole life," the statement said. "The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer free."

Neill was born on September 14, 1947, in Northern Ireland to an English mother and a New Zealand father. 

Over his career, the acclaimed actor starred in dozens of films and television series, most notably as Dr. Alan Grant in Steven Spielberg’s 1993 blockbuster "Jurassic Park."

Neill’s career spanned five decades, earning acclaim for his versatility in dramas, thrillers and genre films. 

Neill rose to international fame alongside a wave of Australian actors and directors in the late 1970s. His film credits include the comedy "Sweet Revenge," the historical drama "The Piano," and the thriller "Dead Calm," in which he starred opposite Nicole Kidman.

Sam Neill during "The Tudors" Press Conference with Jonathan Rhys Meyers and Sam Neill at Four Seasons in Beverly Hills, California, United States. (Photo by Vera Anderson/WireImage)

'Jurassic Park' lead actor

Neill cemented his status as an international star in 1993 when he took on the role of Dr. Alan Grant in "Jurassic Park," starring alongside Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum and Richard Attenborough.

Fans remember Dr. Grant as the brilliant but cautious paleontologist who warned the park's creators about the dangers of bringing dinosaurs back to life, warnings that proved prophetic as the park descended into chaos.

Legacy

Neill’s family said more details will be shared later, but asked for their privacy. He is survived by his four children and several grandchildren.