Graham Greene, nominated for an Oscar for his role in the film Dances with Wolves, died in Toronto

Canadian actor Graham Greene, renowned for his roles in iconic films such as Dances with Wolves and The Green Mile, passed away on September 1, 2025, in Toronto at the age of 74 after a prolonged illness. As one of the first successful Indigenous actors in Hollywood, Greene became a symbol of overcoming stereotypes and championing cultural representation. This article explores his life, career, and impact on the film industry.

Early Years and Path to Fame

Graham Greene was born on June 22, 1952, in the Six Nations Reserve in Ontario, Canada, within the Oneida community of the Iroquois Confederacy. Before pursuing acting, he worked as a draftsman, welder, carpenter, and sound engineer for rock bands. His acting career began in the 1970s with theater productions in Canada and England. Greene made his screen debut in 1979 in the Canadian series The Great Detective, followed by his first notable film role in Running Brave (1983).

His breakthrough came in 1990 with the role of Kicking Bird (Ziŋtká Nagwáka), a Sioux shaman, in Kevin Costner"s Western Dances with Wolves. This performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, making him one of the first Indigenous actors recognized with such a prestigious nomination.

Iconic Roles and Filmography

Over a career spanning more than four decades, Greene appeared in over 170 films and television series. His most notable works include:

• The Green Mile (1999): Greene portrayed Arlen Bitterbuck, a Native American on death row, earning a Screen Actors Guild nomination for his emotionally resonant performance.

• Die Hard: With a Vengeance (1995): He showcased his versatility in this action blockbuster alongside Bruce Willis.

• The Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009): His role as a tribal elder added authenticity to the popular franchise.

• Wind River (2017): Greene"s powerful performance in this thriller garnered critical acclaim.

• Reservation Dogs: This series, centered on Indigenous youth, was a significant part of his later career.

Greene also voiced Chief Rains Fall in the video game Red Dead Redemption 2, further cementing his influence in popular culture. His final project, the thriller Ice Fall, is slated for release in October 2025.

Contribution to Indigenous Representation

Graham Greene was a trailblazer for Indigenous actors, rejecting stereotypical roles and choosing characters that highlighted the depth and dignity of his culture. He actively challenged prejudices, once recounting to director Tony Scott during a Crimson Tide audition how his relatives served on submarines to debunk stereotypes about Native Americans. His involvement in projects created by Indigenous filmmakers, such as Reservation Dogs, helped increase Indigenous representation in media.

Greene received numerous accolades, including a Grammy for a children"s audio album, two Gemini Awards, a Canadian Screen Award, a star on Canada"s Walk of Fame (2021), and the Order of Canada (2016). In 2024, he was honored with the Governor General"s Performing Arts Award for lifetime achievement.

Personal Life and Final Years

Greene lived near Toronto with his wife, Hilary Blackmore, who remained by his side until his final moments. They had a daughter, Lilly Lazar-Greene. Despite his illness, Greene stayed active, continuing to work and inspire colleagues. His agent noted that Greene was a man of high moral standards whose legacy will endure.

Conclusion

The passing of Graham Greene is a profound loss for global cinema. His talent, charisma, and dedication to Indigenous representation made him an icon. From Dances with Wolves to The Green Mile, his roles continue to inspire audiences. In 2025, we bid farewell to a legend whose legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and the history of film.