Sam Neill, the New Zealand actor best known for his role in the “Jurassic Park” movies, has died, his family said Monday. He was 78.

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“Sam was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that has characterised his whole life,” the family said in a statement on social media.

“The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer free,” it added.

Neill had announced he was cancer free in April after five years undergoing treatment for blood cancer.

The New Zealand actor found international claim for his portrayal of Dr. Alan Grant in “Jurassic Park,” a role he reprised in subsequent movies.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.