Sam Neill Inspired a Generation of Scientists

Sam Neill, the New Zealand actor who died at age 78 in Sydney, Australia on Monday, had a long and varied résumé. He played everyone from an international spy (Possession) and a detective chief inspector (Peaky Blinders) to a legendary wizard (Merlin). He even played the literal spawn of the devil (Omen III: The Final Conflict).

But throughout his career, Neill was also known for scientist roles in films like The Dish and Event Horizon, with none more celebrated than Dr. Alan Grant, the rugged paleontologist and undisputed hero of Jurassic Park.

As fans paid tribute to Neill, remembering both his wonderful performances and the charming updates about the farm animals on his idyllic New Zealand vineyard, one clear theme emerged with respect to the iconic Dr. Grant.

“How many of us were inspired to become scientists after watching...

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