Acclaimed actor Graham Greene, celebrated for his iconic role in Dances with Wolves and as a pioneering voice for Indigenous representation in Hollywood, has died at 73, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking performances, cultural advocacy, and heartfelt inspiration that has deeply moved fans and colleagues worldwide.

Hollywood and the global film community are mourning the loss of acclaimed actor Graham Greene, who passed away at the age of 73 on September 2, 2025, at his home in Toronto, Canada, surrounded by family.

Greene, whose career spanned over four decades, was best known for his unforgettable role as Kicking Bird in the 1990 Academy Award-winning film Dances with Wolves, a performance that earned him international acclaim and cemented his place as one of the most respected Indigenous actors in cinematic history.

Born on June 22, 1952, in Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, Ontario, Canada, Greene was raised with a deep connection to his Indigenous heritage, which he carried into every performance.

Early in his life, he faced significant challenges, including growing up in a community with limited resources and confronting societal prejudices against Indigenous peoples in Canada.

These experiences shaped his understanding of the world and informed the depth and authenticity he brought to his roles.

Greene’s breakthrough role came in 1990 when Kevin Costner cast him as Kicking Bird, the wise and compassionate Native American scout in Dances with Wolves.

The film’s exploration of cultural conflict, empathy, and survival resonated worldwide, and Greene’s performance drew widespread praise for its subtle power and emotional gravitas.

In interviews, Greene often credited the role for allowing him to represent Indigenous peoples with dignity and complexity on the global stage.

“I wanted to show the world who we are beyond the stereotypes,” he once told The Globe and Mail.

Following the success of Dances with Wolves, Greene’s career flourished in both film and television.

He appeared in critically acclaimed projects such as Thunderheart (1992), Maverick (1994), The Green Mile (1999), and Hostiles (2017), consistently portraying characters with depth, resilience, and humanity.

His work earned him numerous accolades, including a BAFTA nomination, several Genie Awards, and recognition from Indigenous organizations celebrating his contributions to arts and culture.

Beyond his acting achievements, Greene was a passionate advocate for Indigenous rights and cultural preservation.

He frequently spoke about the importance of telling authentic stories about Indigenous communities and mentored younger actors striving to enter the industry.

Colleagues and co-stars remembered him as humble, dedicated, and profoundly generous.

Actor Kevin Costner, who worked closely with Greene on Dances with Wolves, described him as “a man of immense talent and quiet strength, someone who brought truth and dignity to every role he touched.”

Greene’s influence extended beyond the screen.

He was actively involved in charitable work, including initiatives to support education, mental health, and cultural programs within Indigenous communities.

Friends recalled his frequent travels to remote areas of Canada to visit schools, teach acting workshops, and inspire the next generation of storytellers.

“He wanted every child to know that their voice mattered,” said filmmaker Chris Eyre, who collaborated with Greene on several projects highlighting Indigenous life and history.

Family members confirmed that Greene passed peacefully after a brief illness, surrounded by loved ones.

His wife, Judith, and their children have asked for privacy as they grieve.

Public memorials and tributes are expected to take place in both Toronto and his home community in Ontario, where Greene’s legacy as a cultural icon and beloved son of the Six Nations will be celebrated.

Fans across the globe have taken to social media to share memories, tributes, and favorite scenes from his films, with hashtags such as #RIPGrahamGreene and #LegendaryActor trending internationally.

Film critics and historians have highlighted the enduring importance of his work, noting how Greene helped bridge Hollywood storytelling with authentic Indigenous representation.

His performances continue to be studied in film schools and celebrated in retrospectives, ensuring that his influence will endure for generations.

As Hollywood and Indigenous communities alike reflect on Greene’s remarkable career, it is clear that his legacy extends far beyond his award-winning performances.

He opened doors for Indigenous actors, challenged stereotypes, and brought humanity to stories that might otherwise have gone untold.

From his early days in Six Nations to the heights of international stardom, Graham Greene’s life was a testament to talent, perseverance, and the power of storytelling to transcend boundaries.

In the wake of his passing, tributes are pouring in from industry leaders, co-stars, and fans alike.

Costner posted, “Graham was not just a phenomenal actor; he was a remarkable human being who taught us all the meaning of integrity and heart.” Greene’s daughter, Emily, shared, “Dad lived with courage, humor, and love.

He showed us that telling the truth and honoring who you are can change the world.”

Graham Greene’s death marks the end of an era in both Hollywood and Indigenous representation in film, but his work, advocacy, and example ensure that his influence will remain vivid for decades to come.

From the plains of Dances with Wolves to the complex characters of his later career, Greene leaves behind a body of work that continues to inspire, educate, and touch the hearts of audiences worldwide.