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Recognizing Indigenous Actors During Native American Heritage Month

Umito November 2, 2024

Oscar-winning actor Wes Studi was Number 19 on The New York Times’ “25 Greatest Actors of the 21st Century (So Far)” list.

Details: By Kaili Berg

As Native American Heritage Month begins, there is no better time to recognize the impact of indigenous actors who are reshaping how the world sees and understands indigenous cultures through powerful performances.

Their contributions extend beyond performance, as each of them champions advocacy, authenticity and cultural pride. Here are ten Native American actors whose work has had an indelible impact on Indian Country:

1. Lily Gladstone (Blackfoot and Nez Perce)

Lily Gladstone’s portrayal in Killers of the Flower Moon made her a powerful figure in Indigenous representation. Playing the role of Mollie Kyle, an Osage woman targeted during the Osage murders of the 1920s, she received critical acclaim and became the first Native American to win a Golden Globe.

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2. Devery Jacobs (Kanien’kehá/Mohawk)

Devery Jacobs, known for her role as Elora Danan on Reservation Dogs, brings depth and realism to her character, capturing the spirit of today’s Indigenous youth. Her contributions as a writer to the show further her influence as she ensures Indigenous voices tell Indigenous stories. Jacobs is also a passionate advocate for indigenous rights and environmental justice, using her platform to raise awareness about critical issues.

3. Jessica Matten (Métis/Red River Cree)

Jessica Matten’s work in series like Tribal and Frontier highlights Indigenous struggles and resilience. She often portrays strong Indigenous women tackling complex challenges, mirroring her real-life activism, which includes supporting initiatives to combat violence against Indigenous women and promote good -be young.

4. Zahn McClarnon (Hunkpapa Lakota)

With iconic roles in Longmire, Westworld and Dark Winds, Zahn McClarnon is a long-time advocate for Indigenous representation. His nuanced portrayal of Joe Leaphorn, a Navajo police officer in Dark Winds, captures the complexity of life on reservations. McClarnon’s career has inspired other Indigenous actors, and he frequently speaks on behalf of Indigenous arts and culture.

5. Amber Midthunder (Assiniboine and Sioux)

Amber Midthunder redefined Native roles in action with her breakthrough role in Prey, where she played a young Comanche facing the Predator. Midthunder is passionate about expanding Indigenous representation in genres like science fiction and action, inspiring a new generation of Indigenous talent in Hollywood.

6. D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai (Oji-Cree)

As Bear Smallhill in Reservation Dogs, D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai captures the journey of a young Indigenous teenager navigating life and identity. His charm and authenticity quickly made him a favorite among fans, and his performance helped carve out a niche for Indigenous-led television.

7. Wes Studi (Cherokee)

Hollywood veteran Wes Studi was the first Native American actor to receive an Academy Honorary Award. Known for his roles in The Last of the Mohicans, Dances with Wolves and Avatar, Studi has been bringing Indigenous history and stories to the general public for decades. He remains a revered figure, often speaking out about Indigenous representation and pushing for authentic portrayals in film.

8. Martin Sensmeier (Tlingit and Koyukon-Athabascan)

Martin Sensmeier’s roles in The Mercenaries and Yellowstone showcase his versatility and dedication to his legacy. Sensmeier is committed to changing the perception of Indigenous characters on screen, often depicting them as empowered, complex and resilient. In addition to acting, he actively promotes Indigenous health initiatives and works with Indigenous communities on issues of wellness and representation.

9. Kiowa Gordon (Hualapai)

Known for The Twilight Saga and Dark Winds, Kiowa Gordon is a powerhouse talent in Indigenous cinema. His role in Dark Winds as Jim Chee, a Navajo detective, explores the intricacies of law enforcement on tribal lands. Gordon’s performances bring important conversations about Indigenous law, culture, and sovereignty to mainstream audiences, and his engagement with diverse Indigenous narratives paves the way for more complex stories.

10. Gary Farmer (Cayuga)

A beloved actor, Gary Farmer has played memorable Indigenous characters for years in films like Smoke Signals, Dead Man and Reservation Dogs. Farmer brings humor and insight to his roles, often portraying wise and grounded characters who reflect the wisdom and resilience of Indigenous communities. Farmer’s presence in the film helped keep Indigenous stories visible and respected.

These actors are more than just performers, they are advocates and pioneers. Through their roles, they bring strength, resilience and authenticity to the screen, breaking stereotypes and inspiring future generations.

This Indigenous Heritage Month, let’s celebrate their achievements and continue to support the voices they bring to Hollywood and beyond.