Sam Neill’s final interview: ‘I’ve had to overcome the ordinariness of my appearance’

The actor, who has died aged 78, recently answered Guardian readers’ questions about missing out on James Bond, the true terrors of Jurassic Park and why he called his most fecund cow Helena Bonham Carter

Sam Neill’s 20 best performances

A life in pictures

‘A true gentleman’: actors, directors and leaders pay tribute to Sam Neill

Obituary

Neill interviewed in 2023, 2024 and 2026

Did you consult a canine expert about how best to regress into a dog in Dean Spanley? WomanofWolfville
There was no consultation. I’ve studied dogs – wittingly or unwittingly – over the years, so the portrayal came from that.

I’ve had dogs all my life. I understand them better than I do people. I had a Staffy for 15 years. They are the most expressive of dogs – every flicker of guilt or pleasure is written all over their faces. If I had to leave, my dog wouldn’t take it well. I’d pack in secret – if she saw a suitcase, she’d plunge into despair. When I returned, she’d walk right past me and shun me as punishment. I’d think: “Are you ever going to forgive me?”
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