Kevin Costner paid a moving tribute to his late co-star Graham Greene, who passed away on September 1, 2025. Known for their work together on the 1990 Western epic Dances With Wolves, Costner acknowledged Greene’s enduring impact on film and Indigenous representation through a heartfelt message shared on social media.
Remembering Graham Greene’s Impact in Film
Dances With Wolves, directed by and starring Kevin Costner, follows Union Army Lieutenant John Dunbar’s journey as he embraces the culture of the Lakota Sioux during the American Civil War. Greene’s portrayal of Kicking Bird, a Lakota Sioux medicine man, was a vital component of the film’s emotional depth and authenticity. His performance earned him a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination and helped launch a celebrated career that broadened Indigenous representation in Hollywood.
Costner highlighted Greene’s dedication during filming, noting how Greene learned the Lakota language and fully committed to authentically bringing Kicking Bird to life. This dedication helped set a new standard for Native American roles by emphasizing cultural respect and historical accuracy.
The Significance of Kevin Costner’s Tribute to Graham Greene
The tribute shines a light on Greene’s legacy not only as a talented actor but also as a vital force in transforming how Indigenous characters are portrayed in cinema. Beyond his iconic role in Dances With Wolves, Greene sought to avoid typecasting and embraced a variety of characters across different genres, appearing in projects like The Green Mile, the Twilight Saga: New Moon, Reservation Dogs, and Marvel’s Echo.
Greene’s career is a testament to his commitment to diverse and nuanced storytelling, challenging Hollywood’s tendency to confine Indigenous actors to stereotypes. His work helped pave the way for broader, more authentic representation.
Reflections on Graham Greene’s Enduring Legacy
Kevin Costner’s reflection captures the admiration and respect Greene inspired throughout their collaboration and beyond. Dances With Wolves marked a turning point in sharing Indigenous perspectives with wide audiences, and Greene’s role remains central to that achievement.
Despite his early acclaim, Greene continuously opted for roles that showcased his range, striving to break barriers rather than settle into conventional portrayals. His legacy endures as a powerful reminder of the importance of authentic narrative voices in film, inspiring future generations of Indigenous artists and audiences alike.
Costner expressed his appreciation by sharing a clip from the film along with a tribute caption, saying he was
grateful to have been witness to this part of his lasting legacy.
—Kevin Costner, Actor
