New Zealand is mourning the loss of a true national treasure. Legendary actor Sir Sam Neill has passed away at the age of 78.

Devastating news has hit the Kiwi arts and entertainment community today. Our absolute favorite Jurassic Park icon, international leading man, and local legend Sir Sam Neill has passed away at the age of 78 following a sudden medical event in Sydney. His family shared that he passed peacefully and, in true Sam fashion, remained completely cancer-free after his inspiring public battle with lymphoma over the last few years.

From staring down dinosaurs as Dr. Alan Grant to capturing our hearts in homegrown masterpieces like The Piano and Hunt for the Wilderpeople, Sam didn’t just take New Zealand stories to the global stage—he built the foundation of our entire modern film industry. He was a champion of our culture, an incredible winemaker, and above all, a thoroughly top-tier bloke. We are sending all our love and thoughts to his family and mates today. Rest easy, Sam. You will be deeply missed.