The Most Famous Native American Actor, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the actor you think is the most famous!

Updated on May 6, 2024 07:11

Recognizing the contributions of Native American actors in the film and television industry can offer a richer understanding of diverse storytelling and cultural representation. By focusing on these influential figures, we appreciate their roles in shaping media and advancing the inclusion of Native American perspectives in mainstream entertainment. Such rankings can highlight actors who may not always be in the limelight, enhancing their recognition and our appreciation of their work. This dynamic ranking invites you to participate in celebrating these talents by casting your vote for your favorite Native American actors. Your involvement helps ensure that these actors receive the acknowledgment they deserve while influencing future content to include a broader array of voices. It's more than just a list; it's an opportunity to actively support and promote diversity in the arts.

Who Is the Most Famous Native American Actor?

1

74
votes

Office of the California Governor · Public domain

Wes Studi

Studi is best known for his roles in "Dances with Wolves," "The Last of the Mohicans," and "Avatar." He is a Cherokee actor and has been inducted into the National Native American Hall of Fame.
2

42
votes
Graham Greene

Greene is a Oneida actor who has played notable roles in films like "Thunderheart," "The Green Mile," and "Dances with Wolves." He has also won an Emmy for his work on the TV series "The Red Green Show."
Graham Greene in other rankings
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous person from Hertfordshire
3

12
votes

veronica Romm from fort lee, USA · CC BY 2.0

Adam Beach

Beach is a Saulteaux actor who has appeared in films like "Flags of Our Fathers," "Windtalkers," and "Suicide Squad." He is also known for his work on the TV series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit."
4

14
votes

LIMO 5 · CC BY-SA 4.0

Tantoo Cardinal

Cardinal is a Cree actress who has been in many films, including "Dances with Wolves," "Legends of the Fall," and "Black Robe." She is also a recipient of the Order of Canada.
5

11
votes

DAVilla at English Wikipedia · Public domain

Jay Silverheels

Silverheels was a Mohawk actor who played the iconic role of Tonto in "The Lone Ranger" TV series. He also appeared in many films, including "Broken Arrow" and "The Man Who Loved Cat Dancing."
6

3
votes

fossilmike · CC BY 2.0

Irene Bedard

Bedard is an Inupiat and Yupik actress who is best known for providing the voice of Pocahontas in the Disney animated film. She has also appeared in films like "Smoke Signals" and "Edge of America."
7

9
votes
Gil Birmingham

Birmingham is a Comanche actor who has played roles in films like "Twilight," "Hell or High Water," and "Wind River." He has also had recurring roles on TV shows like "Yellowstone" and "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt."
Gil Birmingham in other rankings
- Position 7 of 10 in Most popular cast member on "Yellowstone"
8

15
votes

Gage Skidmore · CC BY-SA 3.0

Michael Greyeyes

Greyeyes is a Plains Cree actor who has appeared in films like "Dance Me Outside," "Smoke Signals," and "Woman Walks Ahead." He has also worked as a choreographer and director.
9

5
votes

Rodney A. Grant

Grant is a member of the Omaha tribe and is best known for his role as Wind In His Hair in "Dances with Wolves." He has also appeared in films like "Geronimo: An American Legend" and "Black Hawk Down."
10

7
votes

Janet Rogers · CC BY 3.0

Gary Farmer

Farmer is a Cayuga actor who has appeared in films like "Dead Man," "Smoke Signals," and "The Score." He is also a musician and has released several albums.

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Ranking factors for famous actor

Recognition and awards

The number and prestige of awards the actor has received, such as Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, or Emmy Awards, can indicate their level of fame and success.
Body of work

The actor's overall portfolio, including the number of significant roles they have played in movies, television shows, and theater productions, as well as the critical acclaim and popularity of these projects.
Box office success

The actor's contribution to commercially successful projects, particularly in leading or prominent roles, can be indicative of their fame and marketability.
Cultural impact

The actor's influence on the portrayal of Native Americans in the entertainment industry, their contribution to promoting Native American culture, and their engagement in social issues related to their community can contribute to their fame and recognition.
Popularity and public perception

The actor's general popularity, fan following, and public opinion can play a role in determining their fame. This may be reflected in social media presence, interviews, and public appearances.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous Native American actor. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or actor is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1595 views
191 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each actor once every 24 hours. The rank of each actor is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous native american actor

Native American actors have been a part of the film industry for many years, yet only a few have gained recognition and fame in mainstream media. Despite this, their contributions to the entertainment world have been invaluable, and they continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations of Native American actors. One of the most famous Native American actors is Graham Greene, who has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including "Dances with Wolves," "The Green Mile," and "Longmire." Another notable figure is Wes Studi, who has starred in iconic movies such as "The Last of the Mohicans," "Dances with Wolves," and "Avatar." Other notable Native American actors include Adam Beach, Tantoo Cardinal, and Irene Bedard, among others. Despite the limited opportunities and recognition for Native American actors, these individuals have made significant contributions to the film industry and continue to represent their communities on the big screen.