Post by Melissa Hoyer

Class act. And one of the most un-celebrity celebrities. . . Oscar Wilde said ‘a gentleman is one who never hurts anyone’s feelings unintentionally’ & a gentleman Sam Neill certainly was. The Northern Ireland born, New Zealand-based actor, documentarian and winemaker, always with a twinkle in his eye, has died, according to a post on his social media channels. “It is with immense sadness that the whānau [extended family group] of Sam Neill share the news of his passing on Monday 13th July, in Sydney Australia,” the post announced. Sam’s death was sudden and unexpected after he was declared cancer free following an illness. His family expressed their deepest gratitude to St Vincent’s Private Hospital for their incredible care in a statement posted to social media. “More details will be shared later, but for now, on behalf of the family, we ask that you respect their privacy as they navigate this immeasurable loss,” the statement said. Aside from family and friends, his other great passion was his vineyard, Two Paddocks, in Central Otago, New Zealand. Incredibly sad news – a clever, articulate, creative, dry, savvy & sophisticated man indeed. Sam was 78. May he rest in peace. . . 🙏🏼💔😔