Graham Greene, Beloved Actor, Dies at 73
Graham Greene, the acclaimed Canadian actor best known for his Oscar-nominated role as Kicking Bird in Dances With Wolves, has passed away at 73.
“It is with deep sadness we announce the peaceful passing of legendary actor Graham Greene,” his manager, Gerry Jordan, said in a statement to CBC News. Greene died in Stratford, Ontario, on September 1, from natural causes, after a long illness.
A member of the Oneida Nation, Greene began his career as a carpenter before turning to acting in the 1970s. His powerful stage work laid the foundation for a career that spanned decades, including standout roles in The Green Mile, Wind River, Tulsa King, and The Last of Us.
Greene became the first Canadian nominated for an acting Oscar since 1971, marking a major moment for Indigenous representation in Hollywood. Variety called him “a pioneer for Indigenous actors.”
Actor Matty Cardarople, who worked with Greene on Reservation Dogs, paid tribute: “He was lighthearted, wise, hilarious… You made an impact on so many lives. You’ll be missed.”
In a past interview, Greene joked about falling into acting: “These people keep me in the shade, give me food and water… this is the life of a dog!”
He is survived by his wife Hilary Blackmore, daughter Lilly, and grandson Tarlo.
He will forever be remembered for his unforgettable performance in Dances With Wolves, and for a lifetime of work that touched hearts and opened doors.