Graham Greene, the celebrated Canadian First Nations actor best known for his role in Dances With Wolves, has died aged 73. His manager, Gerry Jordan, confirmed his peaceful passing in a statement to CBC News. Greene reportedly died of natural causes, leaving behind a legacy that stretched across film, television, and theatre.
From Oneida Nation to Hollywood Recognition
Born in Ontario, Greene was a proud member of the Oneida Nation, part of the Six Nations Reserve. Before entering the world of acting, he worked in various jobs including as a draftsman, steelworker, civil technologist, and even a rock-band crew member. His journey into acting began in the UK during the 1970s, where theatre gave him a strong foundation for the craft he would later master on screen.
In a 2012 interview, Greene emphasized the importance of theatre training for young actors. “The discipline of theatre is what I recommend to all actors,” he said, reflecting on how stage work shaped his ability to build characters.
Breakthrough With Dances With Wolves
Greene’s breakthrough came in 1990 when he starred alongside Kevin Costner in the Oscar-winning western Dances With Wolves. Playing Kicking Bird, a Lakota medicine man, Greene earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. The role not only brought him international acclaim but also cemented his place as one of the most respected Indigenous actors in Hollywood.
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Notable Film and Television Roles
Beyond Dances With Wolves, Graham Greene’s filmography showcased his versatility. In 1992, he appeared in Thunderheart as tribal officer Walter Crow Horse, earning critical praise. He went on to star in Maverick (1994), Die Hard With A Vengeance (1995), and The Green Mile (1999), where he portrayed Arlen Bitterbuck, a Native American inmate facing execution.
Greene later featured in The Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009) and the acclaimed thriller Wind River (2017). His career extended into television as well, with appearances in numerous series across North America.
Honours and Personal Milestones
Throughout his career, Graham Greene received recognition for his contributions to cinema and culture. In 2004, he was awarded the Earle Grey Award for Lifetime Achievement by the Academy of Canadian Film and Television. Twelve years later, he was inducted into the Order of Canada, the nation’s second-highest civilian honour, acknowledging his impact both on and off screen.
Greene often credited his wife, Hilary Blackmore, as the cornerstone of his personal happiness. He described their marriage as marking “the best time of my life,” a testament to the deep bond they shared.
A Lasting Legacy
The death of Graham Greene marks the end of an era for Indigenous representation in Hollywood. His ability to bring depth, dignity, and humanity to his characters broke barriers for Native actors and inspired countless performers around the world.
Fans and colleagues remember him not just as an actor, but as a storyteller who brought Indigenous culture to the forefront of global cinema. His performances will remain a vital part of film history, ensuring that Graham Greene’s legacy continues to inspire generations to come.
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