The global film and television community is deeply saddened by the passing of Graham Greene, the acclaimed First Nations actor whose career spanned more than four decades and helped redefine Indigenous representation in Hollywood. Greene passed away on September 1, 2025, at the age of 73, following a lengthy illness. His manager, Gerry Jordan, confirmed to CBC News that Greene died of natural causes in a Toronto hospital. While early reports suggested he may have passed in his hometown of Stratford, Ontario, both Jordan and his agent, Michael Greene (no relation), clarified his cause of death and noted his long battle with illness.
A Career That Broke Barriers
Born in 1952, Graham Greene became one of the most recognizable and respected Indigenous actors in the world. His breakout role came in 1990 when he portrayed Kicking Bird, a wise and compassionate Sioux holy man, in Kevin Costner’s epic Dances with Wolves. The performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, a historic moment that solidified his place in Hollywood and brought Indigenous voices to the forefront of mainstream cinema.
Greene’s career extended far beyond this milestone. With more than 180 credits across film, television, and stage, he demonstrated remarkable versatility. He appeared in the prison drama The Green Mile, the blockbuster Die Hard with a Vengeance, the Western comedy Maverick, and lent his presence to countless other films that showcased his ability to move effortlessly between drama, action, and humor. On television, Greene became a familiar face in beloved series such as Northern Exposure, Longmire, Defiance, Reservation Dogs, and the recent HBO hit The Last of Us, where his performances carried both warmth and depth.
A Trailblazer for Indigenous Representation
Beyond his impressive body of work, Graham Greene will be remembered as a trailblazer. At a time when roles for Indigenous actors were scarce and often shaped by harmful stereotypes, Greene fought to bring authenticity and dignity to his characters. He frequently spoke about the importance of representation, pushing for nuanced portrayals that reflected the lived experiences of Indigenous peoples. His success paved the way for a new generation of First Nations and Indigenous actors, directors, and storytellers to thrive in the entertainment industry.
His presence was not only seen on screen but also felt behind the scenes. Colleagues describe him as a mentor and advocate, someone who encouraged younger actors to embrace their heritage while pursuing their craft. His courage in challenging industry norms reshaped how Indigenous characters are depicted in film and television, leaving a lasting legacy of progress and change.
Admired On and Off Screen
Those who worked alongside Greene remember him as more than just an extraordinary actor. He was admired for his humility, warmth, and humor, as well as for his unwavering dedication to his craft. Whether portraying a complex character or lending support to colleagues, Greene carried himself with generosity and grace. Fans around the world cherished his authenticity and his ability to bring profound humanity to every role.
A Lasting Legacy
Graham Greene’s passing leaves a deep void in the arts, but his influence will live on through his unforgettable performances and the barriers he broke for Indigenous representation. He will be remembered as an artist, pioneer, and advocate—a man whose work reached millions and whose legacy will continue to inspire both audiences and future storytellers.
He is survived by his family, close friends, colleagues, and the countless fans who celebrated not only his talent but also his courage in changing the face of Hollywood. His life and career remain a testament to the enduring power of authentic storytelling and the importance of diverse voices in shaping culture.
May the memory of Graham Greene forever remain a blessing, and may his groundbreaking work continue to echo across generations.