Alec Baldwin's Instagram tribute to the late Sam Neill has sparked widespread criticism for its self-centered focus. The 68-year-old actor posted a video intended to honor his The Hunt for Red October co-star, who died at age 78, but instead spent most of the time talking about himself and other cast members.
Video Goes Off Track
The video begins solemnly, with Baldwin saying, 'I just wanted to come on here quickly and say how stricken I was to learn of the death of Sam Neill.' However, it quickly deviates into an extended commentary on the 1990 submarine thriller. Baldwin praises director John McTiernan, recalls meeting author Tom Clancy, and lists co-stars including Sean Connery, Tim Curry, and James Earl Jones. He even shares a story about actor Ronald Guttman smoking while doing a Russian accent and does an impression of James Earl Jones. Sam Neill is barely mentioned until the final seconds, when Baldwin says, 'Anyway, oh my God. My God. Sam Neill. My love to his family.'
Internet Reacts
The internet was quick to mock the tribute. One user on X wrote, 'Alec Baldwin’s Instagram “tribute” to his Red October Co Star Sam Neill, where he spends almost 3 minutes talking about his own filmography & every other actor in October who isn’t Sam Neill might be the most unintentionally funny thing I’ve ever watched.' Another added, 'He forgot what he was supposed to be talking about? He had zero to say about Sam.' A third commented, 'I forgot he was talking about@SamNeill I think he mentioned him in the first 9 seconds and then didn’t talk about him again (except for last 2 secs ). This just became an Alec Baldwin/Hunt For Red October brag??'
Defenders Speak Up
Some viewers defended Baldwin. One Instagram follower wrote, 'You always talk so calming and compassionate and so kindly about all the people you have worked with.' Another acknowledged the unusual approach but still appreciated it, saying, 'You didn’t say much about Sam Neill but good introspection about Red October. I should see it again! Sam Neill was magnificent.'
Neill's Death Confirmed
Neill's family confirmed he died in Sydney on Monday at age 78. In a statement, they said, 'It is with immense sadness that the whānau [family] of Sam Neill share the news of his passing… Sam was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that has characterized his whole life.' They added that, despite his death coming as a shock, he had recently remained cancer-free following treatment for blood cancer.
Baldwin likely intended the video as a sincere expression of affection, but his detour into his own memories of The Hunt for Red October has overshadowed the tribute. Metro has contacted Baldwin's representatives for comment.
