Graham Greene, the celebrated Canadian actor whose performances brought quiet strength and spiritual depth to some of cinema’s most memorable roles, has passed away at 73. His agent confirmed he died peacefully in hospital in Ontario following a period of illness. His death marks the loss of one of the most respected Indigenous actors in Hollywood and Canadian film — a man whose artistry transcended borders and stereotypes.
Born in Six Nations Reserve, Ontario, Greene began his artistic journey in the 1970s, performing on stage and in Canadian television before making his film debut in Running Brave (1983). His breakthrough came with Kevin Costner’s Dances with Wolves (1990), where his portrayal of Kicking Bird, a compassionate Lakota holy man, earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
The role not only introduced him to global audiences but also reshaped how Indigenous characters were portrayed in mainstream cinema — with dignity, humanity, and depth. Greene’s versatility soon shone in films like The Green Mile, Thunderheart, Die Hard with a Vengeance, and in television with Longmire, where his presence was calm yet commanding, humble yet magnetic.
Beyond the screen, Greene was a steadfast advocate for authentic Indigenous storytelling. He used his platform to challenge misrepresentation and to promote truth, respect, and inclusion of Native voices in film and media.
Colleagues remember him as a “gentle force” — a man who carried his heritage not as a burden, but as a light. His work helped carve space for generations of Indigenous artists to tell their own stories with pride and integrity.
Greene is survived by his wife, Hilary Blackmore, their daughter, Lilly Lazare-Greene, and son, Tarlo Greene. Tributes have poured in from across the film industry and Indigenous communities, honoring not only his artistry but also his humility, humor, and unwavering authenticity.
He taught us that strength can be quiet — that truth doesn’t need to shout to be heard. His performances continue to speak for those who came before him and inspire those who will follow. Through every role he played, Graham Greene reminded the world that storytelling, at its best, heals, humanizes, and honors the spirit
