New Zealand actor Sam Neill died unexpectedly on Monday at the age of 78, not long after recovering from cancer, according to a statement released by his family.
Tributes began pouring in from around the world following the announcement of his passing.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese took to social media to honor the actor, writing: “Wry and dry, thoughtful and laconic, Sam fought illness with the same dignity, humour and conviction that gave strength to his every performance. He will be much mourned and long remembered. May he rest in peace.”
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon also paid his respects online, saying: “Sir Sam Neill was one of the greats. He started out when there was barely a film industry in this country to speak of. For more than fifty years he took New Zealand stories to the world and his talents helped make our film industry into what it is today – one of our greatest cultural exports.”
