Remembering Graham Greene: The Oscar-Nominated ‘Dances With Wolves’ Star Passes Away at 73

Graham Greene, a pioneering actor from the Canadian First Nations, passed away on September 1 at the age of 73 in a Toronto hospital after battling illness. He played a key role in paving the way for Indigenous actors in Hollywood, most notably in the film Dances with Wolves, which earned him an Oscar nomination.

His agent, Michael Greene, spoke fondly of him, highlighting his strong moral character. In his statement, he added a personal note about Greene being reunited with his longtime agent, Susan Smith, who passed away in 2013.

Greene was born on June 22, 1952, in Ohsweken on the Six Nations Reserve. Before diving into acting, he held various odd jobs. He began his career in theater during the 1970s, showcasing his talents on Canadian and British stages.

His screen journey started in 1979 with the Canadian series The Great Detective, followed by his first movie in Running Brave (1983). But it was Dances with Wolves in 1990 that marked his major breakthrough. Directed by Kevin Costner, the film received 12 Academy Award nominations and won seven, including Best Picture. Greene’s role as Kicking Bird was pivotal, helping to shine a light on Indigenous narratives in cinema.

After Dances with Wolves, Greene starred in several notable films, including Maverick (1994), Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995), and The Green Mile (1999). His work in Molly’s Game (2017) and The Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009) further solidified his reputation as a versatile actor.

Greene also appeared in the acclaimed series Reservation Dogs, which celebrates Indigenous culture and talent. This show is part of a growing trend in television to feature more authentic Indigenous stories, reflecting changing perspectives in Hollywood.

Throughout his career, Greene received numerous accolades, including a Grammy and multiple Gemini Awards. He was also honored with a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame and recently received the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award, underscoring his contributions to the arts.

He leaves behind a loving family: his wife Hilary Blackmore, daughter Lilly Lazare-Greene, and grandson Tarlo. Greene’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors, particularly those from Indigenous communities, as the industry works toward more inclusive representation.

As the film industry evolves, Greene’s impact remains significant. His journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of diverse voices in cinema.

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