Miranda Richardson recalls Sam Neill as cool, suave and shy

New Zealand actor Sam Neill, best known for his roles in *The Piano* and *Jurassic Park*, gave his final interview before passing away in early July. The conversation, released by the New Zealand Film Archive, offered a rare glimpse into Neill’s reflections on a career that spanned more than five decades. In it he spoke candidly about the evolution of the film industry, his experiences working with directors such as Jane Campion, and the personal challenges he faced, including a recent diagnosis that ultimately led to his death at age 71.

Tributes poured in from colleagues, directors and industry leaders who described Neill as a “true gentleman” and a “democratic, no‑bullshit” presence on set. Campion recalled his quiet confidence and his willingness to share a bottle of pinot noir from his winery, Two Paddocks, with crew members during the production of *Merlin* in 1998. Neill’s life outside acting—his farm, his wine production, and his love for animals—was highlighted as a testament to his grounded nature. The collective remembrance underscores Neill’s enduring influence on New Zealand cinema and his legacy as a respected, approachable figure in the global film community.