Actor Sam Neill, famous for his roles in Jurassic Park and Hunt for the Red October, has died aged 78.
A statement posted to Instagram read: “It is with immense sadness that the whānau (family) of Sam Neill share the news of his passing on Monday 13th July, in Sydney Australia.”
“Sam was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that has characterised his whole life.”
The statement continued: “The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer free.
“They would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital for their incredible care.
“More details will be shared later, but for now, on behalf of the family, we ask that you respect their privacy as they navigate this immeasurable loss.”
Here are 10 quotes from the actor about life, acting and his role on The Simpsons.
1. On getting work... (Photo by Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)
"Every actor wants more offers, but I get enough and I do like to be busy." | Getty Images
2. Remembering Jurassic Park...(Photo by Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)
"Whilst filming 'Jurassic Park,' I watched a hurricane approaching the beach in Hawaii. My co-worker Laura Dern and I thought we might die, but we managed to laugh about it later." | Getty Images
3. On New Zealand... (Photo by Ross Land/Getty Images)
"If you're making films in New Zealand, you can't avoid the landscape. It's certainly more handsome than I am." | Getty Images
4. On the song he would like played at his funeral... (Photo credit should read VALERY HACHE/AFP via Getty Images)
"I Will Remember You, by Sarah McLachlan. That'll choke the bastards up if nothing else will" | AFP via Getty Images