Actor Sam Neill dies at 78

Veteran actor Sam Neill, best known for his roles in *Jurassic Park* and *The Piano*, died on 13 July 2026 at the age of 78, according to a statement released by his family. The announcement, posted on the actor’s official website, confirmed that Neill passed away peacefully at his home in New Zealand following a brief illness, though no further medical details were disclosed. Representatives for his estate declined to comment further, and a private funeral service is planned for later this month, with a public memorial to be arranged at a later date.

Neill’s career spanned more than five decades, encompassing acclaimed performances in films such as *Event Horizon*, *The Other Side of Midnight*, and the television series *Peaky Blinders*. He received numerous honors, including a New Zealand Order of Merit for services to film and a BAFTA nomination for his role in *The Piano*. Colleagues and industry bodies have issued statements praising his versatility and contribution to both New Zealand and international cinema, underscoring the lasting impact of his work on successive generations of actors and filmmakers.