Graham Greene, the acclaimed Canadian Indigenous actor best known for Dances With Wolves and The Green Mile, has died at 73. He passed away on September 1, 2025, in Stratford, Ontario, after a period of illness, according to his agent.
Born on June 22, 1952, on the Six Nations Reserve in Ontario, Greene had a distinguished career spanning over four decades in film, television, theater, and audio productions. His breakthrough role came in 1990 as Kicking Bird in Dances With Wolves, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
Greene appeared in numerous notable projects, including Thunderheart, Die Hard with a Vengeance, and the TV series Reservation Dogs and The Last of Us. He was celebrated for his quiet intensity and authentic portrayal of Indigenous characters. His advocacy for Indigenous representation in media made him a trailblazer in Hollywood and Canadian cinema.
Over his lifetime, Greene received several honors, including the Order of Canada in 2015 and the Governor General’s Award for Performing Arts in June 2025.
He is survived by his wife, Hilary Blackmore, his daughter Lilly Lazare-Greene, and his grandson Tarlo. Tributes from fans, colleagues, and Indigenous communities highlight his enduring impact and dedication to fostering respect for Indigenous culture through his art.
Graham Greene’s legacy lives on through his memorable performances and his vital role in bringing Indigenous stories to a wider audience. His passing is mourned as the loss of a true icon and advocate.