Graham Greene, a name synonymous with powerful performances and captivating presence, has become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.  This First Nations (Oneida) actor from Canada has graced screens worldwide, captivating audiences with his versatility and dedication to his craft.  

This article delves into the life and career of Graham Greene, exploring his rise to fame, iconic roles, and the impact he’s made on the film and television landscape.

From Six Nations Reserve to the Silver Screen: Early Life and Beginnings

Born in 1952 on the Six Nations Reserve in Ontario, Canada, Graham Greene’s journey began amidst a rich cultural heritage.  Fueled by a passion for acting, he enrolled in the Native Earth Performing Arts program, honing his skills and laying the foundation for his future success.

Greene’s early career saw him thriving in the Canadian theatre scene.  He performed in various productions, showcasing his talent and dedication to the stage.  One such performance, his portrayal of the affable drunk Pierre St. Pierre in “Dry Lips Oughta Move to Kapuskasing,” garnered significant acclaim.

Breaking Barriers: Hollywood Beckons

Greene’s talent wasn’t confined to the Canadian stage.  In 1990, he landed a pivotal role in Kevin Costner’s epic Western, “Dances with Wolves.”  His portrayal of “Kicking Bird,” a Lakota Sioux warrior, earned him widespread recognition and an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

This nomination marked a turning point in Greene’s career.  He shattered barriers by becoming the first Indigenous North American actor nominated for an Academy Award in a leading or supporting role.  “Dances with Wolves” propelled him into the international spotlight, opening doors to numerous Hollywood opportunities.

A Legacy of Diverse Roles: Showcasing Versatility

Throughout his career, Graham Greene has defied typecasting, showcasing his remarkable range. Here’s a glimpse into some of his notable roles:

Thunderheart (1992): 

Playing alongside Val Kilmer, Greene portrayed a traditional Lakota medicine man, highlighting the depth he can bring to culturally significant characters.

Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995):  

Greene’s comedic timing shone in this action flick, where he played a resourceful electronics store owner caught in the midst of John McClane’s (Bruce Willis) latest adventure.

The Green Mile (1999):  

Greene delivered a powerful performance as Arlen Bitterbuck, a death row inmate with a secret past, showcasing his ability to portray complex characters with emotional nuance.

Skins (2002):  

Greene embraced a lighter side in this Canadian drama series, playing a high school principal balancing humor and authority.

Transamerica (2005):  

Greene’s portrayal of a transgender escort named Calgary Jane alongside Felicity Huffman demonstrated his willingness to tackle challenging and layered characters.

Casino Jack (2010):  

Greene’s comedic timing once again came into play as he played an Indigenous lobbyist caught in the web of a political scandal.

Wind River (2017):  

Greene reunited with director Taylor Sheridan in this neo-Western thriller, playing a veteran tracker aiding a young FBI agent (Jeremy Renner) in a murder investigation.

This list barely scratches the surface of Greene’s extensive filmography.  He has consistently delivered captivating performances, demonstrating his commitment to portraying diverse characters and stories.

Beyond Hollywood: Theatre and Giving Back

Despite his Hollywood success, Greene hasn’t strayed from his theatrical roots.  He continues to perform on stage, including a critically acclaimed performance as Shylock in the Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s production of “The Merchant of Venice.”

Furthermore, Greene remains dedicated to his Indigenous heritage and actively supports various causes.  He has spoken out about the importance of cultural representation and fostering opportunities for Indigenous artists in the entertainment industry.

A Legacy Carved in Performance: The Impact of Graham Greene

Graham Greene’s impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable.  Here’s how his presence continues to resonate:

Breaking Barriers:  

Greene’s Academy Award nomination paved the way for more Indigenous actors to receive recognition in Hollywood.  He continues to inspire aspiring actors from diverse backgrounds.

Versatility and Talent:  

Greene’s ability to embody a wide range of characters has enriched the storytelling landscape.  He serves as a testament to the power of diversity in casting and representation.

Cultural Bridge:  

Through his work, Greene bridges the gap between Indigenous and mainstream audiences.  He fosters understanding and appreciation for Indigenous cultures and stories.

FAQs

Q: What is Graham Greene best known for?

A: Graham Greene is a First Nations Canadian actor known for his role as Kicking Bird in Dances with Wolves (1990), which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

Q: What other notable films has he been in?

A: Greene has starred in a diverse filmography, including Thunderheart (1992), Maverick (1994), Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995), The Green Mile (1999), Skins (2002), Transamerica (2005), Casino Jack (2010), Winter’s Tale (2014), The Shack (2017), and Wind River (2017).

Q: Does he also have a stage career?

A: Yes, Greene frequently performs on stage. He’s known for his performance in “Dry Lips Oughta Move to Kapuskasing” at Native Earth Performing Arts. He’s also appeared in productions like “The Crackwalker” and “History of the Village of the Small Huts.”

Q: Did he achieve any recognition beyond the Academy Award nomination?

A: Greene has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including an honorary doctorate of law degree from Wilfrid Laurier University.

Q: Where and when was Graham Greene born?

A: Greene was born on June 22, 1952, in Six Nations Reserve, Ontario, Canada.

Q: What is his Indigenous heritage?

A: Greene is a member of the Oneida Nation, one of the Six Nations of the Grand River.

Q: How did he get into acting?

A: There isn’t widely available information about his early interest in acting. However, he graduated from The Centre for Indigenous Theatre’s Native Theatre School program in 1974, suggesting a dedicated path.

Q: Who are some actors he might consider influences?

A: As there aren’t many public interviews where he mentions influences, it’s difficult to say definitively. However, actors like Russell Means and Floyd Red Crow Westerman are prominent figures in Indigenous cinema who might have inspired him.

Q: Does he advocate for Indigenous representation in film and television?

A: Given his successful career and choice of roles, it’s safe to assume he supports increased representation. However, there’s limited information publicly available about his specific advocacy efforts.

Q: Is Graham Greene married?

A: Yes, Greene has been married to Hilary Blackmore since December 20, 1990.

Q: Does he have any children?

A: Yes, he and his wife Hilary have two children.

Q: Is he active on social media?

A: There’s no public verification of official social media accounts for Graham Greene.

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