According to a study, one leading actor across 1,600 films was Native American, but 65% of Native American characters were inconsequential to the plot.1
Despite this, Native American actors are reshaping the way their stories are told, bringing more depth and authenticity to their roles. Here are 14 influential actors who are not only making waves but also transforming how Native American stories are represented in Hollywood.
1. Jason Momoa
Jason Momoa is of mixed heritage, including Native Hawaiian, Native American, and European descent. His mother is of Native American (Apache) and German descent, while his father has Hawaiian ancestry.
Momoa is best known for his roles as Khal Drogo in Game of Thrones and Aquaman in the DC Extended Universe. His diverse background and striking appearance have made him a standout in Hollywood.
2. Lily Gladstone
Lily Gladstone is a member of the Blackfeet Nation, a Native American tribe from Montana. Gladstone has gained acclaim for her roles in films like Certain Women and Billions.
Her performances often reflect a deep connection to her Native American roots, bringing authenticity to her roles.
3. Natar Ungalaaq
Natar Ungalaaq is an Inuit actor from Nunavut, Canada. Ungalaaq is known for his roles in Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner, which is notable for its portrayal of Inuit culture and storytelling. His work has been influential in bringing Indigenous stories to a wider audience.
4. Chief Dan George
Chief Dan George was a member of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, a Coast Salish tribe in British Columbia, Canada. His role as a respected Native leader and actor was deeply tied to his heritage.
George is remembered for his role in Little Big Man and The Outlaw Josey Wales. His performances were significant in raising awareness about Native American issues and culture.
5. Adam Beach
Adam Beach is from the Saulteaux First Nation in Manitoba, Canada. Beach has appeared in various films and television shows, including Flags of Our Fathers and Windtalkers. He has been a vocal advocate for Native American representation in Hollywood.
6. Zahn McClarnon
Zahn McClarnon is of Lakota and Irish descent. McClarnon has made a major impact with roles in Banshee, Longmire, and Fargo. His portrayal of Native American characters is noted for its depth and authenticity, reflecting his own cultural background.
7. Jay Silverheels
Jay Silverheels was a member of the Mohawk Nation. He is well known for his work in Hollywood during the mid-20th century. Silverheels is best remembered for his iconic role as Tonto, the Native American sidekick to the Lone Ranger in the television series The Lone Ranger.
His portrayal helped shape the public’s perception of Native American characters in early television.
8. Michael Horse
Michael Horse is a member of the Yaqui Nation. Horse is known for his roles in Twin Peaks and The X-Files. His performances often incorporate his cultural heritage, and he has been involved in various Native American advocacy efforts.
9. Irene Bedard
Irene Bedard is of Iñupiat and Métis heritage. Bedard is best known for voicing Pocahontas in Disney’s Pocahontas and Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World.
She has also appeared in films like Smoke Signals and The New World, where her performances highlight her cultural roots and contribute to Indigenous representation in Hollywood.
10. Will Rogers
Will Rogers was of Cherokee descent. Rogers was a beloved actor and humorist known for his roles in films such as State Fair and The Ropin’ Fool. His wit and charm, coupled with his Native American heritage, helped bridge cultural gaps and entertain audiences during the early 20th century.
11. Graham Greene
Graham Greene is a member of the Oneida Nation. Greene is renowned for his performances in films like Dances with Wolves, The Green Mile, and Wind River. His work often reflects his cultural background and contributes to a nuanced portrayal of Native American experiences in cinema.
12. Ben Johnson
Ben Johnson was of Comanche descent. Johnson was a renowned actor and rodeo performer known for his roles in Westerns. Some of his notable films include The Last Picture Show, The Wild Bunch, and Oklahoma!
His portrayal of rugged, authentic Western characters was informed by his own background and experience.
13. Ned Romero
Ned Romero was of Taos Pueblo heritage. Romero appeared in various films and television shows, including The Wild Wild West, The Big Sky, and The Cowboys.
His performances often highlighted his Native American heritage and contributed to more accurate representations of Native American characters on screen.
14. Wes Studi
Wes Studi is a member of the Cherokee Nation. Studi is well known for his roles in films such as Dances with Wolves, The Last of the Mohicans, and Geronimo: An American Legend.
His performances are celebrated for their depth and authenticity, reflecting his strong connection to his Cherokee heritage.
These actors are not just playing roles but are changing the way Native American stories are told and seen on screen. Their talent and dedication help bring more genuine and meaningful representations of Native American culture to the forefront of film and television.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
