On September 1, 2025, the world lost a true icon. Graham Greene, the Oscar-nominated actor best known for his unforgettable turn as Kicking Bird in Dances With Wolves, passed away at 73 after a lengthy illness in a Toronto hospital, according to Deadline.
Born in Ohsweken, on the Six Nations Reserve, in 1952, Greene was a proud member of Canada’s Oneida Nation. He broke ground early, becoming a powerful voice for Indigenous representation in Hollywood. His performance in Dances With Wolves earned him an Academy Award nomination and remains compelling to this day.
Greene’s resume reads like a history of thoughtful, meaningful roles. He lit up screens in The Green Mile, Die Hard with a Vengeance, Maverick, Wind River, and Reservation Dogs, among others. He also appeared in The Last of Us and lent his voice to big projects like Red Dead Redemption 2.
His contributions earned him a Grammy, Canadian Screen Award, and most recently, the prestigious Governor General’s Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award in 2025.
Tributes From Hollywood and Beyond
Tributes poured in from those who knew and worked with him. Kevin Costner called him “a master at work and a wonderful human being,” especially praising his dedication to learning the Lakota language for Dances With Wolves.
Lou Diamond Phillips remembered their friendship fondly, calling Greene “One of the wittiest, wiliest, warmest people I’ve ever known.” Gil Birmingham honored him as “a man of incredible talent” who inspired a new generation of Native actors
Graham Greene wasn’t just an actor—he was a trailblazer. He brought dignity, humor, and depth to every role, consistently pushing for more authentic Indigenous stories. He didn’t just open doors; he built them. Rest in peace, Graham Greene. Your voice—and your impact—will be felt for generations to come.
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