Nigel John Dermot "Sam" Neill is a New Zealand actor, writer, producer, director, and vineyard owner. Born in Omagh, Northern Ireland, he moved to Christchurch with his family in 1954. Neill first achieved recognition with his appearance in the 1977 film Sleeping Dogs, which he followed with leading roles in My Brilliant Career, Omen III: The Final Conflict, Possession, A Cry in the Dark, Dead Calm, and The Piano. He came to international prominence with his portrayal of Dr.