Acclaimed actor Sam Neill has died surrounded by family in Sydney on Monday.

Neill’s death was sudden and unexpected after he was declared cancer-free following an illness.

“It is with immense sadness the whanau (family) of Sam Neill shares the news of his passing on Monday,” the 78-year-old’s family said in a social media post.

“Sam Neill was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that characterised his whole life.

“The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer-free.”

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,” a statement said.

Neill was a leading actor who starred in dozens of Hollywood films, including 'Jurassic Park', 'Hunt for the Wilder people', 'The Piano' and 'The Dish'.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was among those who paid tribute to the iconic actor.

-news.com.au