With heavy hearts, the world says goodbye to Graham Greene, the acclaimed Canadian actor whose career spanned more than four decades and left an indelible mark on both Hollywood and Indigenous representation in mainstream media. Greene, best known for his Academy Award–nominated role as Kicking Bird in Dances with Wolves (1990), passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, at the age of 73 in Stratford, Ontario, after a long illness. At his side was his beloved wife, actress Hilary Blackmore.

His manager, Gerry Jordan, confirmed the news to CBC News, noting that Greene’s passing was due to natural causes. While his death marks the end of an era, his body of work and the path he paved for Indigenous performers continue to inspire.

From Humble Beginnings to Hollywood Recognition

Greene’s life before acting was anything but conventional. Born on June 22, 1952, in Ohsweken, Ontario, he was a proud member of the Oneida Nation of the Six Nations Reserve. Before finding his place in the entertainment world, he worked an array of jobs—carpenter, steelworker, welder, and even a roadie for a rock band. These experiences gave him a grounded perspective and resilience that he carried into his acting career.

It wasn’t until the 1970s that Greene began exploring acting more seriously, first through theater in the United Kingdom. Stage work, he often reflected, gave him the discipline and focus that defined his craft. “The discipline of theatre is what I recommend to all actors,” he said in a 2012 interview. Those early years provided the foundation for a career that would later bring him international recognition.

Breakthrough Role in Dances with Wolves

Greene’s breakthrough came in 1990 with his portrayal of Kicking Bird, a thoughtful and compassionate Lakota holy man, in Kevin Costner’s epic western Dances with Wolves. His nuanced performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, making him only the second Canadian Indigenous actor to be nominated, after Chief Dan George in 1971.

That recognition was not only a personal triumph but also a cultural milestone. At a time when Indigenous characters were often reduced to stereotypes in Hollywood, Greene brought authenticity, dignity, and humanity to the role. He later recalled the moment he learned about his nomination: he immediately phoned Hilary before the congratulatory calls started flooding in.

A Career of Range and Depth

Following Dances with Wolves, Greene built a career marked by versatility. He appeared in major films such as The Green Mile (1999), Thunderheart (1992), Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995), and Wind River (2017). On television, he brought warmth and wit to roles in series like Northern Exposure, Longmire, The Last of Us, and most recently, Tulsa King. He also left a memorable mark with his role in Reservation Dogs, a groundbreaking show centering Indigenous voices.

His ability to move seamlessly between drama, action, and comedy showcased the depth of his talent. He wasn’t afraid to take risks, and whether he was playing a lawman, a father, or a spiritual guide, Greene brought quiet intensity and humor that made his characters unforgettable.

Humor, Humility, and Humanity

Despite his success, Greene remained remarkably humble. Known for his dry wit, he often joked about how acting seemed almost too easy compared to his early labor jobs. “I stumbled into acting and thought, These people keep me in the shade, give me food and water, take me where I’m supposed to say lines, then take me back. Wow — this is the life of a dog!” That sense of humor endeared him to colleagues and fans alike.

Actor Matty Cardarople, who worked with Greene on Reservation Dogs, remembered him as “lighthearted, wise, hilarious, and someone who lived life with a light heart, no ego, not jaded, interested.” Such words echo the sentiments of many in the industry who saw Greene as both a professional inspiration and a deeply kind human being.

Champion for Representation

Greene’s career carried a significance beyond entertainment. As a proud Oneida actor, he helped dismantle long-standing stereotypes and opened doors for Indigenous performers in Hollywood. His success made it possible for future generations to see themselves represented with dignity and complexity on screen. He often spoke about the importance of Indigenous voices telling their own stories, using his platform to encourage inclusivity and authenticity in the industry.

Legacy of Love and Family

Beyond the screen, Greene was a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife, Hilary Blackmore, their daughter, Lilly Lazare-Greene, and his grandson, Tarlo. In interviews, he often credited his family for keeping him grounded despite the demands of the entertainment industry.

A Lasting Influence

Graham Greene’s passing is a profound loss for cinema, television, and the communities he represented with such dignity. Yet his legacy endures in every role he played and every barrier he broke. He will be remembered not just as an actor of extraordinary skill, but as a trailblazer who expanded what was possible for Indigenous talent in Hollywood.

Greene’s life story—from the steel mills of Ontario to the Academy Awards stage—reminds us of the power of perseverance, authenticity, and the courage to embrace one’s identity fully. His performances continue to resonate with audiences, not only for their artistry but for the truth and humanity he infused into them.

In honoring Graham Greene, we celebrate a life dedicated to storytelling, representation, and the unshakable belief that every person deserves to see themselves reflected on screen. His journey was one of resilience, humor, love, and groundbreaking achievement. Though he may have left this world, the stories he told and the barriers he broke ensure that his spirit will never be forgotten.