Hollywood Mourns: Graham Greene D**s at 73
A Legendary Career
The world is mourning the loss of beloved actor Graham Greene, who passed away at 73. He will always be remembered for his unforgettable performance in Dances With Wolves.
“It is with deep sadness we announce the peaceful passing of award-winning legendary Canadian actor Graham Greene,” his manager Gerry Jordan told CBC News.
Breakthrough Role
Greene gained international acclaim as the Sioux leader Kicking Bird in Kevin Costner’s epic Dances With Wolves. The role earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. At 38, he became the first Canadian nominated for an Oscar since Chief Dan George in 1971.
“I called my wife, Hilary, and said, ‘You won’t believe this. I’ve just been nominated for an Oscar,’” Greene recalled. “Two minutes later, the phone started ringing.”
From Humble Beginnings to Hollywood
Before acting, Greene worked as a carpenter, welder, civil technologist, steelworker, and even as part of a rock band crew. His stage work in the UK during the 1970s helped him build discipline and craft, which he later credited as essential to his film career.
“The discipline of theatre is what I recommend to all actors,” he told Playback in 2012.
Iconic Roles Across Screen
Over the years, Greene delivered powerful performances in The Green Mile and Wind River. He also starred in acclaimed TV series like Tulsa King and The Last of Us.
Passing and Legacy
Greene d**d on September 1 in Stratford, Ontario, after a long illness. His manager later confirmed the d**th was due to natural causes. A member of the Oneida Nation, Greene was celebrated for his wisdom, humor, and heart, as well as his trailblazing role in Indigenous representation in Hollywood.
Variety called him “a pioneer for Indigenous actors in Hollywood.”
Tributes from Co-Stars
Actor Matty Cardarople, who worked with Greene on Reservation Dogs, shared a heartfelt tribute:
“I spent long van rides with him to set. He always cracked everyone up. He lived the way you should—with a light heart, no ego. Graham, thanks for everything. Truly. You made an impact on so many people’s lives. You’ll be missed.”
A Life of Many Paths
Asked what he might have done if not for acting, Greene said:
“I’d probably be a welder. I started out as a carpenter, a welder, a draftsman, a carpet layer, a roadie, and an audio tech. I stumbled into acting and thought, ‘Wow — this is the life of a dog!’”
Survived by Family
Greene’s wife, Hilary Blackmore, was by his side at a Toronto hospital. He is survived by Hilary, his daughter Lilly Lazare-Greene, and his grandson Tarlo.
