Anupam Kher pays emotional tribute to Hollywood legend Sam Neill: 'The world of cinema has lost an extraordinary artist'

Veteran actor Anupam Kher expressed grief over the death of Hollywood star Sam Neill, who passed away on July 13 at the age of 78. Sharing a photo from their first meeting in Sydney on Instagram, Anupam paid an emotional tribute to the legendary actor.

He said he was fortunate to have met Sam Neill and remembered him as a warm, kind and humble person.Anupam also shared that he had admired Sam Neill's work for decades and said the Hollywood star's legacy will continue to inspire generations. He wrote, “From My Brilliant Career and The Piano to Jurassic Park, The Hunt for Red October and so many other memorable performances, he brought intelligence, dignity and a rare quiet strength to every character he portrayed.”The 'Tanvi The Great' actor said that Sam Neill not only impressed audiences with his performances but also touched people's hearts with his presence, he shared, , “The world of cinema has lost an extraordinary artist, and the world has lost a wonderful gentleman. Rest in peace, dear Sam. Your work and your warmth will live on. Om Shanti.”Sam Neill's team confirmed his death through a statement shared on his official Instagram account.

They said the veteran actor passed away peacefully while surrounded by his family in his final moments. He added, “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.

"Sam Neill was featured in several popular films like 'Attack Force Z' (1982), 'Evil Angels' (A Cry in the Dark, 1988), 'Dead Calm' (1989), 'Death in Brunswick' (1990), 'The Hunt for Red October' (1990), 'The Piano' (1993), 'In the Mouth of Madness' (1994), and 'Event Horizon (1997). Neill shot to fame with the role of Dr Alan Grant in Steven Spielberg’s 'Jurassic Park' (1993). Owing to the film’s popularity, he reprised the same character in 'Jurassic Park III' (2001) and 'Jurassic World Dominion' (2022).