Irish actors are often mistaken for British, which can be frustrating, especially when they are receiving prestigious awards. As a proud native of Belfast, I am proudly claiming the late Sam Neill, who sadly passed away at 78, as one of our own.

Neill, known for his roles in Jurassic Park and Peaky Blinders among his extensive filmography, passed away unexpectedly in Sydney, where he had been living cancer-free since April after a three-year battle with the disease.

Although his family relocated to New Zealand when he was seven, where he later received a knighthood in 2022, Neill spent his formative years in Northern Ireland. Born in Omagh, Co. Tyrone, to army parents, his identity always had connections to New Zealand, Australia, and Northern Ireland.

In interviews, Neill fondly recalled his childhood in County Armagh as idyllic, roaming freely in the beautiful countryside and enjoying moments at Tyrella beach. Despite losing his Northern Irish accent over the years, he sought help from fellow actors to perfect it for his role in Peaky Blinders.

Known for his versatility, Neill delivered memorable performances in various films, including The Piano, The Hunt For Red October, and the lesser-known gem, Daybreakers. His charm, sense of humor, and storytelling prowess endeared him to fans and colleagues alike.

While I never had the chance to interview Neill, I appreciate his deep ties to Northern Ireland and will cherish his onscreen moments for years to come. His legacy as a kind-hearted and talented actor will be dearly missed by fans worldwide.