Breaking News: Graham Greene, Trailblazing First Nations Actor, Passes at 73
Graham Greene, the celebrated Canadian First Nations actor, has died at the age of 73, his agent confirmed today.
Greene passed away on September 1, 2025, in a Toronto hospital following a prolonged illness The Washington PostVulture.
A Legacy of Artistry and Representation
Born on June 22, 1952, in Ohsweken on the Six Nations Reserve, Greene emerged from modest beginnings to become one of the most revered figures in Hollywood for Indigenous representation The Washington PostThe Daily Beast. Initially working odd jobs, he “stumbled into” acting in the late 1970s People.comThe GuardianLos Angeles TimesNew York Post.
Green’s breakthrough came with his portrayal of Kicking Bird in Kevin Costner’s Dances with Wolves (1990), a role that earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor and brought Indigenous talent to global attention The Washington PostThe GuardianPeople.comLos Angeles Times.
An Illustrious and Varied Career
Over more than four decades, Greene featured in over 180 film and television productions The Washington PostLos Angeles TimesEW.com. His credits include major films such as Maverick (1994), Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995), The Green Mile (1999), and The Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009) The Washington PostPeople.comThe Daily BeastNew York PostLos Angeles Times.
His television vault is equally distinguished: Northern Exposure, Longmire, Reservation Dogs, The Last of Us, Echo, and Tulsa King are among the highlights EW.comThe Daily BeastLos Angeles Times.
Greene also earned a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album for Children in 2000, in addition to multiple Canadian Screen Awards and the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award in 2025 The Daily BeastLos Angeles TimesEW.com.
A Voice for First Nations in Media
Greene was a fervent advocate for authentic portrayal of First Nations people. Reflecting on stereotyped roles, he once remarked, “My people are very funny,” insisting on roles that expressed nuance and spirit The GuardianWikipedia.
He challenged prevalent cliches in Hollywood and opened the door for future Indigenous actors, reshaping how Indigenous stories are told.
Personal Remembrance and Final Years
Greene married Hilary Blackmore in 1990. The couple had a daughter, Lilly Lazare‑Greene, and a grandson, Tarlo (Tarlo), whom he cherished People.comEW.comThe Daily Beast. His wife was reportedly by his side at the time of his passing People.comThe Washington Post.
Known for his warmth, humility, and ethics, Greene was widely respected by peers. His agent described him as “a great man of morals, ethics and character,” adding: “You are finally free” VultureThe Daily BeastThe Washington Post.
Impact and Tributes
The reaction from the global film and First Nations communities was immediate and heartfelt. Colleagues and fans honored his pioneering career and dignified presence, recognizing him as a legend who forged pathways for representation.
His legacy endures in the performances he delivered, the honors he received, and the doors he opened for future generations.
In Summary
Graham Greene, a luminary of First Nations portrayal and a respected actor across film, television, and audio media, passed away following a long illness. His unparalleled career, advocacy for authentic representation, and the quiet integrity he carried with him define a remarkable life.
He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire both audiences and creators. Green’s work transformed how Indigenous stories are seen and told—embracing their complexity, humor, and humanity.
