Graham Greene, the celebrated Canadian actor best known for his moving and nuanced performances, has passed away at the age of 73. The news was confirmed by his agent, who said he died peacefully after a lengthy illness. His departure marks the loss of one of the most respected Indigenous actors in film and television, a man whose career broke barriers and redefined representation.

Greene was born on June 22, 1952, in Ohsweken on the Six Nations Reserve in Ontario, Canada. Before turning to acting, he held other roles—welder, draftsman, and more—learning early on the value of hard work and humility. His acting break came in the late 1970s and early 1980s, gradually ascending through theatre and Canadian television.

His breakthrough role came in 1990 when he played Kicking Bird, a Lakota medicine man in Dances With Wolves. His portrayal earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor and introduced him to global audiences. Over his decades-long career, Greene brought quiet strength to every role, whether in The Green Mile, Die Hard with a Vengeance, The Twilight Saga, or television series such as Reservation Dogs and The Last of Us.

Greene’s artistry extended beyond performance; he was also a strong advocate for authentic representation of Indigenous peoples in media. He challenged stereotypes and called for roles that honored complexity over cliché, striving to show Indigenous characters as full, living people with humor, depth, flaws, and triumphs.

He is survived by his wife, Hilary Blackmore, and their daughter, Lilly Lazare-Greene. Tributes have poured in across the entertainment industry and Indigenous communities, honoring his kindness, integrity, and the lasting legacy of his work.

In reflecting on his life, it’s clear that Graham Greene’s impact will endure—not just in the characters he played, but in the doors he opened and the voices he lifted. His presence on screen and off radiated dignity and purpose, reminding us all of how powerful storytelling can be in bridging gaps, healing wounds, and expanding understanding.