New Zealand actor Sam Neill, who shot to global prominence as the main character in the 1993 blockbuster "Jurassic Park," has died unexpectedly at the age of 78.

Making the loss even more tragic is the fact that Neill had just beaten cancer just before passing away.

The family of Sam Neill released the following statement on Instagram announcing his passing, which they described as "sudden and unexpected":

It is with immense sadness that the wh?nau 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.