New Zealand actor Sir Sam Neill dies at age 78 in Sydney, Australia, his family says. Multiple outlets report that he dies suddenly and unexpectedly, with the family issuing a statement following his death. Reports also say he was surrounded by family members at the time. Several sources add that Neill had previously recovered from cancer and that he remained cancer-free before his death. The circumstances of his final illness are not detailed in the accounts provided. One report notes the family statement was shared via Neill’s Instagram page and describes the loss as sudden but “blessed” by the fact that he had stayed free of cancer. Media coverage also refers to Neill as a major figure in New Zealand screen and film, and he is widely known internationally for major acting roles. The reporting is consistent that Neill’s family publicly confirms his death, and that he dies in Sydney on July 13.