The world of cinema is mourning the loss of Graham Greene, the acclaimed Canadian First Nations actor best known for his Oscar-nominated role in Dances with Wolves. Greene, who spent decades breaking barriers and giving voice to Indigenous characters in Hollywood, passed away on September 1, 2025, at the age of 73, following a long illness.
His death marks the end of a legendary career that spanned more than four decades and left an indelible mark on both Canadian and American film history.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born on June 22, 1952, in Ohsweken, Ontario, Greene was a proud member of the Oneida Nation of the Six Nations Reserve. He initially worked as a sound engineer before pursuing acting, eventually graduating from the Centre for Indigenous Theatre in Toronto.
Greene’s breakthrough came in 1990 with Kevin Costner’s epic Dances with Wolves. His performance as Kicking Bird, a thoughtful Lakota medicine man, earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. This was a milestone moment—not just for Greene, but for Indigenous actors who had long been sidelined in Hollywood.
A Career of Versatility
Over the years, Greene showcased remarkable range, balancing major Hollywood blockbusters with television roles and independent films. Some of his most notable works include:
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🎬 The Green Mile (1999) — alongside Tom Hanks
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🎬 Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995) — with Bruce Willis and Samuel L. Jackson
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🎬 Maverick (1994) — with Mel Gibson and Jodie Foster
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🎬 Wind River (2017) — a crime thriller highlighting issues in Native communities
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📺 Reservation Dogs (2021–2023) — a groundbreaking Indigenous-led series
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📺 The Last of Us (2023) — HBO’s post-apocalyptic hit series
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📺 Tulsa King and Riverdale — popular TV appearances in recent years
His ability to bring depth, dignity, and humanity to Indigenous characters set him apart in an industry often criticized for stereotypes.
Awards and Recognition
Greene’s contributions did not go unnoticed. In addition to his Oscar nomination, he earned:
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A Grammy Award (2004) for Best Spoken Word Album
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Multiple Canadian Screen Awards
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Canada’s Governor General’s Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award (2025), presented earlier this year
These honors cemented Greene’s legacy as one of the most respected Indigenous actors of his generation.
A Cultural Trailblazer for Indigenous Representation
For Indigenous audiences across North America, Graham Greene was more than just an actor—he was a pioneer. At a time when Native characters were often played by non-Native actors, Greene broke through with authenticity. His success opened doors for other Indigenous performers, including actors like Zahn McClarnon, Devery Jacobs, and D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai.
Greene often spoke about the responsibility he felt to represent Indigenous communities fairly, telling interviewers that his goal was always to portray characters with “truth, respect, and humanity.”
Personal Life and Family
Despite his Hollywood fame, Greene kept his personal life private. He was married to Hilary Blackmore for 35 years, and together they had a daughter, Lilly Lazard-Greene, and a grandson, Tarlo.
His colleagues remember him as warm, witty, and deeply loyal. Actor Lou Diamond Phillips wrote on social media:
“We’ve lost a legend. Graham Greene wasn’t just a brilliant actor; he was a friend, a mentor, and a true trailblazer for Indigenous voices.”
Final Works and Legacy
Greene’s final film, Ice Fall, is set to be released later in 2025. Fans and critics alike are eager to see his last performance, which will undoubtedly serve as a fitting tribute to his long career.
His passing leaves a profound void in the entertainment industry. Yet, his work continues to inspire Indigenous artists and storytellers who are now claiming their rightful place in film and television.
Why His Death Matters to the U.S. Audience
For American audiences, Greene wasn’t just a Canadian actor—he was a part of the fabric of Hollywood. From Dances with Wolves to The Green Mile and beyond, his roles shaped how Indigenous people were represented in mainstream cinema.
His death resonates deeply in the United States, not only because of his iconic performances but also because he helped shift cultural perspectives. In many ways, Greene’s career paved the way for a more inclusive Hollywood.
Final Thoughts
The death of Graham Greene at 73 is a loss felt across North America and beyond. He was more than an actor—he was a trailblazer, an advocate, and a cultural icon. His performances will live on, reminding us of the power of authentic storytelling and the importance of representation in media.
As fans and fellow actors pay tribute, one thing is certain: Graham Greene’s legacy will never fade.
