Actor Sam Neill passed away due to pneumonia and will be remembered at a private family gathering on his farm in New Zealand at a later date, as per his representative. Neill, known for his roles in movies like “Jurassic Park” and “The Piano,” sadly died at the age of 78 in Sydney earlier this week.

His agent, Philip Grenz, clarified that Neill succumbed to pneumonia after bravely battling and defeating lymphoma with CAR-T therapy before falling ill. Despite his illness, Neill managed to complete filming four consecutive projects over the past year, set for release soon.

Given Neill’s preference for privacy, his family plans to hold a low-key memorial on his New Zealand farm. The accomplished New Zealand actor had revealed his battle with angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma in 2023 and happily announced being cancer-free in April this year. CAR-T therapy, an innovative immunotherapy utilizing T cells, played a crucial role in his treatment.

Following Neill’s passing, tributes poured in from fellow industry professionals, praising his kindness, humor, and inquisitive nature. Director Taika Waititi, who worked with Neill on “Hunt for the Wilderpeople,” expressed deep sorrow over the loss.

Steven Spielberg, director of the original “Jurassic Park” film where Neill portrayed Dr. Alan Grant, remembered him fondly as a collaborative and talented individual. Neill’s legacy extends beyond Hollywood, as he was part of the wave of Australian actors and directors who gained global recognition starting in the late 1970s.

Apart from his acting career, Neill was also a respected vintner, producing wines under his Two Paddocks label in New Zealand’s Central Otago region. Remembered as a down-to-earth individual who actively supported local causes, Neill leaves behind four children and eight grandchildren.