Colleagues and acquaintances remember Graham Greene as a versatile actor who effortlessly portrayed both serious and comedic roles, acting as a mentor figure to younger performers. Greene, a member of the Oneida community from Six Nations of the Grand River in southern Ontario, passed away at the age of 73 on Monday. Throughout his illustrious career spanning nearly five decades, Greene showcased his talent in various major motion pictures and television productions, earning accolades such as being a member of the Order of Canada, an Academy Award nomination for his role in “Dances with Wolves,” and receiving the Earle Grey Lifetime Achievement Award for television acting in 2004.
Growing up in Six Nations, Greene forged a lasting friendship with fellow Six Nations actor and cousin Gary Farmer. They shared a bond from childhood, engaging in creative endeavors and later finding themselves in the same rehearsal hall in London, Ontario in 1977, where their acting careers took off. Farmer praised Greene’s adaptability and noted how he excelled in the industry, showcasing a remarkable ability to navigate different roles and situations.
Darrell Dennis, who directed one of Greene’s final films, “Sweet Summer Pow Wow,” expressed his shock at Greene’s passing and highlighted Greene’s refusal to conform to stereotypical Indigenous character tropes. Dennis recalled how Greene’s success inspired him and others in the acting community, emphasizing Greene’s impact as an iconic figure to aspiring actors.
Another colleague, Glen Gould, shared his admiration for Greene, whom he viewed as a mentor figure akin to an uncle. Gould reminisced about being captivated by Greene’s stage presence in “Dry Lips Oughta Move to Kapuskasing,” likening the experience to watching a legendary athlete in action. Reflecting on his time working with Greene, Gould praised Greene’s ability to incorporate his own health challenges into his performances, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and fearlessness in acting.
Throughout his career, Greene’s influence extended beyond his on-screen performances, with colleagues remembering his genuine care for others and his willingness to reach out and connect with fellow actors. Greene’s legacy as a talented and compassionate actor continues to resonate within the entertainment industry, leaving a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of working alongside him.
