Former Channel 7 crew member Sam Beattie found dead in his Sydney home
Sunday Night sound recordist Sam Beattie has been found dead at his Sydney home.
The fishing enthusiast and keen gardener, who has struggled with depression in recent years, was a long-time crew member of Seven’s now defunct current affairs program before moving into freelance documentaries and reality television.
While members of the public may not recognize Beattie’s name, tributes have poured in from those who worked with ‘Sammy’ and experienced his hard work and dedication first-hand.
Former Sunday Night star Steve Pennells told Inside Mail that he learned a lot from the fun soundo during their time together, both professionally and personally.
“I am deeply saddened to hear of Sam’s passing,” Pennells said.
‘Sam was not only a brilliant sound recordist, but also a kind and reliable colleague during my early years on Sunday Night.
“I will never forget his calm professionalism and unwavering support, especially during a particularly challenging assignment in Lebanon.
‘The crew is rarely the face of such a show, but the magic you saw on screen had more to do with their hard work than any of us.
Tributes have poured in for highly regarded former Sunday Night sound recordist Sam Beattie after the popular crew member was found dead at his Sydney home last week
Sam Beattie with American rapper Snoop Dogg during a shoot for Seven’s Sunday Night
“Sam was one of the good guys. It was a pleasure to work with him and he will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate enough to work with him.”
His thoughts were echoed by Mark Llewellyn, the founder and executive producer of Sunday Night.
“Sam Beattie was not only good at his job – in fact, very good – but more importantly, he was a good person,” he told Inside Mail.
‘His colleagues loved him, and so did the interviewees he met along the way.
‘He had the gift of making them feel relaxed and just a little bit more comfortable. Sam was just a great guy and his loss is keenly felt.
“Like everyone who has worked with Sam, I am at a loss for words. Too young. Just heartbreaking.”
Cameraman and good friend Andrew Eavis also shared a heartfelt tribute.
‘Vale-Sam Beattie. I will miss you, my friend,” he said.
Late Sunday Night soundo Sam Beattie (centre) on assignment with reporter Ross Coulthart and cameraman Ray Blewitt
Late Sunday Night soundo Sam Beattie (second from right) during an interview with comedian Barry Humphries
‘I loved your dedication, your friendship and your entertaining company. This post is dedicated to you and all the people you made happy, there were so many.
‘I was lucky to be a friend. Rest in peace, Sam.’
Seven’s flagship current affairs program was canceled by the network at the end of 2019.
If you are struggling with depression, call the dedicated staff at Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636