Graham Greene, Oscar‑nominated ‘Dances With Wolves’ actor, dies at 73

Graham Greene, the Canadian First Nations actor who earned an Academy Award nomination for his role in the 1990 film Dances With Wolves, has died. He was 73.

His death was confirmed by his agent, Michael Greene, who told Deadline that Greene died in a Toronto hospital after a long illness. Greene’s representative told several outlets that his wife, Hilary Blackmore, was by his side. In a statement, the agent said, "He was a great man of morals, ethics and character and will be eternally missed," and added, "You are finally free. Susan Smith is meeting you at the gates of heaven," a reference to Greene’s longtime agent, who died in 2013.

Born in 1952 on the Six Nations Reserve in Ontario, Greene began his career on stage before making his television debut in Canada on the series The Great Detective in 1979. His first feature film role came in 1983’s Running Brave, and he rose to international prominence with his performance as Kicking Bird opposite Kevin Costner in Dances With Wolves, a film that won multiple Academy Awards and earned Greene a nomination for best supporting actor.

Greene sustained a prolific career in film and television for decades. He appeared in high‑profile projects including The Green Mile and earned recognition for bringing nuanced portrayals of Indigenous characters to mainstream cinema, helping open doors for other Indigenous actors in the industry. He also maintained a visible presence in Canadian cultural life, receiving a commemorative plaque on Canada’s Walk of Fame in Toronto in 2022.

Colleagues and advocates have cited Greene’s career as influential for Indigenous representation on screen. Over the years he appeared in a wide range of roles on television and in films that showcased his versatility as an actor. He worked steadily across genres, from historical drama to contemporary stories, and was frequently sought for parts that called for dignity and depth.

Later reports said Greene continued to live and work in Canada, and he remained active in projects and appearances until recent years. His agent’s public comments emphasized Greene’s personal character as well as his professional achievements.

Greene is survived by his wife, Hilary Blackmore. Further details about funeral arrangements and additional survivors were not immediately available. News outlets that reported his death cited statements from his agent and representatives.

Graham Greene’s career spanned stage, television and film, and his work in Dances With Wolves remains a defining moment in Hollywood’s evolving portrayal of Indigenous peoples. He received industry recognition for that work and leaves a legacy cited by peers and commentators as instrumental in broadening opportunities for Indigenous performers in North American entertainment.