Graham Greene remembered as a ‘legend’ who brought nuance to characters

Advertisement

Advertise with us

TORONTO - Graham Greene's friends and contemporaries are remembering the Canadian actor as a trailblazing talent with a wicked sense of humour.

Read this article for free:

or

Already have an account? Log in here »

We need your support!
Local journalism needs your support!

As we navigate through unprecedented times, our journalists are working harder than ever to bring you the latest local updates to keep you safe and informed.

Now, more than ever, we need your support.

Starting at $15.99 plus taxes every four weeks you can access your Brandon Sun online and full access to all content as it appears on our website.

Subscribe Now

or call circulation directly at (204) 727-0527.

Your pledge helps to ensure we provide the news that matters most to your community!

To continue reading, please subscribe:

Add Brandon Sun access to your Winnipeg Free Press subscription for only

$1 for the first 4 weeks*

  • Enjoy unlimited reading on brandonsun.com
  • Read the Brandon Sun E-Edition, our digital replica newspaper
Start now

No thanks

*$1 will be added to your next bill. After your 4 weeks access is complete your rate will increase by $4.99 a X percent off the regular rate.

TORONTO – Graham Greene’s friends and contemporaries are remembering the Canadian actor as a trailblazing talent with a wicked sense of humour.

The Oneida actor from Six Nations of the Grand River died Monday at age 73, following a decades-long career bringing nuance to Indigenous characters who were often flattened to fit Hollywood narratives.

Lily Gladstone called Greene a “legend” and says his impact is “unparalleled and expansive.”

Actor Graham Greene attends a red carpet for the movie
Actor Graham Greene attends a red carpet for the movie "Through Black Spruce" during the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival in Toronto on Friday, Sept. 7, 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Fred Thornhill

She says she never met him, but he made everything he was in better, funnier and deeper.

Greene earned international fame with his Oscar-nominated portrayal of Kicking Bird in 1990’s “Dances With Wolves.”

He also had roles in “The Green Mile” and the third installment of the “Die Hard” franchise.

Gil Birmingham, who acted alongside him in “The Twilight Saga,” says Greene inspired a generation of Indigenous actors.

Ethan Hawke says Greene “infused every moment with spontaneity and humour.”

The actor wrote on Instagram that he worked with Greene earlier this year — an experience he called “shockingly fun.”

“He has always possessed extraordinary grace, wisdom, wit, and depth,” Hawke said.

Gov.-Gen. Mary Simon said in a written statement that Greene brought dignity to every character he portrayed, setting an example for other actors.

“Mr. Greene broke barriers for Indigenous actors, challenging stereotypes and opening doors for future generations,” she wrote. “Today, we honour his extraordinary contributions to Canadian culture and celebrate a legacy that will resonate across Canada and beyond.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 2, 2025.

Report Error Submit a Tip

Entertainment

LOAD MORE