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| Graham Greene as Kicking Bird in Dances With Wolves |
The actor Graham Greene, best known internationally for his role opposite Kevin Costner in Dances With Wolves, has died at the age of 73, following a long illness. Across a career that spanned almost 50 years, he appeared in a diverse collection of films, frequently winning critical acclaim, and also made a big impact on the small screen.
A member of the Oneida nation, Greene emerged as a film actor at a time when Native American roles were frequently played by Mexicans or white actors in make-up. He became a crucial figure in representing Native people onscreen, inspiring other actors and filmmakers, though it sometimes weighed on him. Though relieved to see the industry move away from a stage at which indigenous characters were always treated with hostility or mockery, he expressed frustration with having to be dignified most of the time, relishing rare opportunities to play comedic or villainous roles.
Alongside Dances With Wolves, Greene's big screen work included The Green Mile, Wind River, Transamerica and Die Hard With A Vengeance. He made an impression in the likes of Antlers, Te Ata and Molly's Game, but never took himself too seriously, also taking on small roles in the likes of Atlantic Rim.
Starting out on stage and receiving praise for his ongoing work with the Native Earth Performing Arts company, Greene adapted easily to different ways of working. His television work includes the likes of Northern Exposure, Wolf Lake and The Last Of Us. He made guest appearances in Murder, She Wrote and The Outer Limits.
Greene is survived by his wife of 35 years, Hilary Blackmore, and daughter Lilly Lazare-Greene.
