By Michael Burt
The Bellingen community has joined a global outpouring of tributes for beloved actor Sam Neill following news of his sudden death this week.
Bellingen has a cherished connection to the star of more than 100 films through his attendance at the 2025 Readers and Writers Festival.
In addition to his stellar acting a career, the New Zealand born actor is also being remembered for his contributions to Australian arts scene, and for his “completely down-to-earth” attitude away from the camera.
During his visit to Bellingen for the Festival, Neill and his close mate Bryan Brown held the most successful, fastest-selling event in the festival’s history. He praised Bellingen as a “lovely little town” with excellent food and welcoming locals.
Festival director Adam Norris said attendees and locals remember him as incredibly approachable, down-to-earth, and genuinely fond of the Bellingen community
“We fondly remember the time Sam spent with us at the Festival in 2025, when he reflected on his remarkable life and career alongside his closest friend Bryan Brown, in conversation with the brilliant Virginia Trioli,” said festival director Adam Norris.
“That session remains the most successful in our Festival’s history, selling out in just two hours – a testament to the enormous affection for Sam.”
“He brought extraordinary warmth, humour and resilience to our stage, and we are profoundly grateful for the opportunity to have welcomed him to Bellingen, and that he chose to share his story with us all.”
“Sam’s remarkable body of work has left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire audiences for generations to come. He will be greatly missed, and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”