Sam Neill had worked steadily in film for almost two decades before becoming, at the age of 45, a star in the eyes of the industry. A rugged, dependable everyman who radiated, depending on the role, a kind of quietly masculine decency or steely coldness, the New Zealander never pursued flashy, explosive lead roles. In
In his more than 50 years on screen, Sam Neill, who died Monday at the age of 78, was a star in both blockbusters and independent films, had memorable roles in several prestige television series and excelled at playing heroes and villains alike. Although the New Zealand actor is best known for his beloved role