Actor Sam Neil, known for roles in 'Jurassic Park,' 'Peaky Blinders' and many more, dies at 78
Renowned actor Sam Neill, best known for his role as Dr. Alan Grant in the 'Jurassic Park' franchise, has passed away at age 78. The actor, who also starred in 'Peaky Blinders,' died peacefully surrounded by family.
Why it matters
Neill was a globally recognized figure in cinema whose career spanned decades and multiple iconic franchises, leaving a significant impact on popular culture.
Actor Sam Neill, known for his roles in the "Jurassic Park" films and "Peaky Blinders," died on Monday, according to his official social media account. He was 78.
"Sam was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that has characterised his whole life," the statement, which was posted early on Monday, said. "The loss was sudden and unexpected, but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer-free."
Neill, who was born Nigel John Dermot Neill on Sept. 14, 1947, in Omagh, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, didn't get exposure to acting until he was in college.
As a kid, Neill's parents were in the army, and his father's family owned a vineyard. When he was 7, Neill and his family moved to New Zealand. It was while he attended the University of Canterbury that he gained exposure to acting.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in