Remembering Graham Greene: Celebrated ‘Dances with Wolves’ Star Passes Away at 73

Graham Greene, the esteemed Canadian First Nations actor, passed away at 73 in a Toronto hospital after a long illness. His agent, Michael Greene, called him a man of great morals and ethics, saying he will be deeply missed.

Born in 1952 on the Six Nations Reserve in Ontario, Greene initially worked as a recording engineer. A friend’s suggestion to read a script sparked his interest in acting. He began his journey on stage in the 1970s and made his screen debut in 1979 with a role in the Canadian drama The Great Detective. His first film, Running Brave, came out in 1983.

Greene gained fame after being cast by Kevin Costner in the 1990 western Dances with Wolves. His portrayal of Kicking Bird earned him an Academy Award nomination and opened doors to a flourishing Hollywood career. He went on to star in hit films like Thunderheart, Die Hard with a Vengeance, and The Green Mile, as well as New Moon from the Twilight series.

In recent years, Greene appeared in various acclaimed series, including Reservation Dogs and The Last of Us. Despite his illness, he continued to work on multiple projects, showcasing his dedication to his craft.

Throughout his career, Greene received several prestigious awards, including a Grammy and a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame. Just before his passing, he was honored with the Canadian governor general’s performing arts award for lifetime achievement.

In a reflective interview, he noted the challenges he faced early in his career, particularly regarding the stereotypes of Native characters. He emphasized the rich humor and familial bonds within Indigenous cultures, which were often overlooked in Hollywood portrayals. “Fun is 50% of how they live and enjoy things,” he said, underlining the warmth and humor in these communities.

Greene leaves behind his wife Hilary, daughter Lilly, and grandson Tarlo. His legacy as a groundbreaking actor will continue to inspire future generations.

In the wake of his passing, fans took to social media to share fond memories and celebrate his contributions to film and culture, showing just how impactful his work was across various audiences. Greene’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of authenticity in storytelling, especially in representing marginalized voices in the entertainment industry.

For more about his impact on film and theater, check the Canadian Screen Awards website.

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