Days after the heartbreaking passing of Jurassic Park icon Sam Neill, the actor’s official cause of death has now been confirmed. The legendary New Zealand star died on July 13 at the age of 78, leaving behind a remarkable five-decade legacy that shaped generations of film lovers. As tributes continue to pour in from across Hollywood, fresh details have also emerged about his final days and the private memorial his family is planning.

While the world remembers the man who brought Dr. Alan Grant to life, his family has now shared new details surrounding his final chapter.

Sam Neill died from pneumonia, his representative confirmed days after the actor’s passing. According to the statement, Neill had previously battled angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma and successfully entered remission after undergoing CAR-T therapy. Despite his health challenges, the actor remained remarkably active, completing four back-to-back film projects over the past year while continuing to oversee his beloved New Zealand winery, Two Paddocks.

“Prior to becoming sick, Sam had valiantly fought and beaten lymphoma through a new treatment called CAR-T therapy,” Neill’s rep said to PEOPLE.

Neill’s representative also confirmed to PEOPLE that a private family memorial will be held at his New Zealand farm in the coming weeks. Thanking those closest to the actor for respecting the family’s privacy during this difficult time, the statement further encouraged fans wishing to honor Neill’s memory to support several charitable causes that were close to his heart instead of sending flowers. 

Hollywood Mourns Sam Neill: Tributes Pour In as the ‘Jurassic Park’ Star Breathes Last

However, long before becoming a Hollywood legend, Sam Neill walked on a career that stretched far beyond the gates of Jurassic Park.

Although millions will forever remember him as Dr. Alan Grant in Jurassic Park, Sam Neill’s career extended across some of cinema’s most celebrated blockbusters, thrillers, and award-winning dramas. From The Hunt for Red October and The Piano to cult classics like Event Horizon and In the Mouth of Madness, the actor consistently delivered performances that showcased remarkable versatility across genres. His later years were equally memorable, with acclaimed roles in Hunt for the Wilderpeople, Though the beloved actor is no longer with us, the unforgettable characters he brought to life, from Dr. Alan Grant to countless others—will continue inspiring movie lovers for years to come. introducing him to a new generation of audiences.

Across more than five decades, Neill earned a reputation as one of New Zealand’s finest actors, admired not only for his commanding screen presence but also for the warmth and humility he carried beyond the camera. His passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues including Nicole Kidman, Cillian Murphy, Toni Collette, Richard E. Grant, and many others, reflecting the profound impact he left on both the film industry and those who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Though the beloved actor is no longer with us, the unforgettable characters he brought to life, from Dr. Alan Grant to countless others, will continue inspiring movie lovers for years to come.

Sam Neill Family: Who Does Late ‘Jurassic Park’ Actor Leave Behind?

What is your favorite Sam Neill performance? Let us know in the comments.