Actors You Probably Didn’t Know Are Part Native American

The entertainment industry has a long history of actors with diverse backgrounds that are not always immediately apparent to the general public. Many famous men in Hollywood possess indigenous ancestry that shapes their personal identities and sometimes their professional choices. This list explores several male actors who have confirmed their Native American heritage through their family lineage or tribal citizenship. From legendary stars of the silent era to modern blockbuster leads these individuals represent a wide range of tribal nations.

Jason Momoa

Jason Momoa has heritage from both the Native Hawaiian people and the Pawnee Nation. He gained international fame for his role as Arthur Curry in ‘Aquaman’ and Khal Drogo in ‘Game of Thrones’. The actor often honors his roots through traditional ceremonies and public advocacy for indigenous rights. His diverse background contributes to the unique presence he brings to his various cinematic roles.

Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp has stated in multiple interviews that his great grandmother was of Cherokee or possibly Creek descent. He explored this heritage through his portrayal of Tonto in the film ‘The Lone Ranger’. The actor has often spoken about his pride in his ancestry and his connection to indigenous communities. His career spans decades with iconic roles in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ and ‘Edward Scissorhands’.

Taylor Lautner

Taylor Lautner discovered his Native American ancestry while researching his family history during his youth. He specifically possesses Ottawa and Potawatomi heritage through his mother. This connection became a point of discussion during his time filming ‘The Twilight Saga’. Lautner has since appeared in various projects including ‘The Ridiculous 6’ and ‘Cuckoo’.

Chuck Norris

Chuck Norris has Cherokee heritage through both his mother and father. The legendary martial artist and actor frequently mentions his roots in his biographical writings. He is best known for his long running television series ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’. Norris became a cultural icon through his action movies such as ‘The Way of the Dragon’.

Lou Diamond Phillips

Lou Diamond Phillips is of mixed heritage including Cherokee ancestry from his father. He played a significant role in bringing indigenous representation to the screen in films like ‘Young Guns’ and ‘The Dark Wind’. His breakout performance came in ‘La Bamba’ where he portrayed Richie Valens. Phillips continues to be an active presence in Hollywood with numerous television and film credits.

Burt Reynolds

Burt Reynolds was of Cherokee descent through his father who was half Cherokee. The actor often discussed his heritage and how it influenced his identity growing up in the South. He became one of the biggest box office draws in the world during the 1970s with hits like ‘Smokey and the Bandit’. Reynolds received an Academy Award nomination for his performance in ‘Boogie Nights’.

Billy Bob Thornton

Billy Bob Thornton possesses Cherokee heritage on his mother’s side. The actor and filmmaker rose to prominence after writing and starring in ‘Sling Blade’. He has won numerous awards including an Oscar for his screenwriting. Thornton has maintained a successful career in both film and television with roles in ‘Fargo’ and ‘Goliath’.

Kelsey Grammer

Kelsey Grammer has Native American ancestry that he has discussed in various interviews. He is most famous for his long tenured role as Dr Frasier Crane on the sitcoms ‘Cheers’ and ‘Frasier’. The actor has also voiced significant characters such as Sideshow Bob in ‘The Simpsons’. Grammer has received multiple Emmy Awards for his work in the television industry.

Val Kilmer

Val Kilmer has Cherokee ancestry through his paternal grandmother. He portrayed a character with Sioux heritage in the film ‘Thunderheart’ which highlighted modern indigenous issues. Kilmer is widely recognized for his roles in ‘Top Gun’ and ‘Tombstone’. His career includes a memorable performance as Jim Morrison in ‘The Doors’.

Benjamin Bratt

Benjamin Bratt has Quechua ancestry through his mother who was born in Peru. He is known for his role as Detective Rey Curtis on ‘Law and Order’ and his work in films like ‘Miss Congeniality’. Bratt has been a vocal advocate for indigenous representation and has participated in activism for Native American rights. He also starred in the film ‘La Mission’ which explored his cultural background.

James Garner

James Garner was part Cherokee and grew up in Oklahoma where he was surrounded by indigenous culture. He became a major television star in ‘Maverick’ and later in ‘The Rockford Files’. Garner was known for his charm and his ability to transition between dramatic and comedic roles. He received an Academy Award nomination for ‘Murphy’s Romance’ late in his career.

Will Rogers

Will Rogers was a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and remains one of the most famous figures in American history. He was a vaudeville performer and a social commentator who appeared in over 70 films. Rogers was a global celebrity known as Oklahoma’s Favorite Son. His legacy continues to influence American culture and entertainment today.

Tom Mix

Tom Mix was an early Hollywood superstar who claimed Cherokee heritage during his career. He starred in hundreds of silent Western films and became the genre’s first major action hero. Mix was known for performing his own stunts and for his elaborate costumes. His impact on the Western genre helped define the cowboy archetype in cinema.

Graham Greene

Graham Greene is an Oneida actor who has appeared in dozens of major motion pictures. He received an Academy Award nomination for his role in ‘Dances with Wolves’. Greene has had a steady career in both Canadian and American productions including ‘The Green Mile’. He is often cast in roles that showcase his wisdom and steady presence.

Gary Farmer

Gary Farmer is a Cayuga actor who is a prominent figure in indigenous cinema. He is best known for his role as Nobody in ‘Dead Man’ and for his work in ‘Powwow Highway’. Farmer has spent decades promoting Native American arts and culture through various media outlets. He continues to act in significant projects such as ‘Resident Alien’.

Wes Studi

Wes Studi is a Cherokee actor who has received an Academy Honorary Award for his contributions to the film industry. He is known for his powerful performances in ‘The Last of the Mohicans’ and ‘Geronimo An American Legend’. Studi has appeared in blockbuster films such as ‘Avatar’ and ‘Hostiles’. He is often credited with bringing authentic indigenous representation to Hollywood.

Gil Birmingham

Gil Birmingham is of Comanche descent and has appeared in many high profile films and series. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Billy Black in ‘The Twilight Saga’. Birmingham currently stars in the hit series ‘Yellowstone’ as Chief Thomas Rainwater. His career includes significant roles in ‘Hell or High Water’ and ‘Wind River’.

Adam Beach

Adam Beach is a Saulteaux actor from the Dog Creek First Nation in Manitoba. He is well known for his roles in ‘Windtalkers’ and ‘Flags of Our Fathers’. Beach has also appeared in ‘Suicide Squad’ and the television series ‘Law and Order Special Victims Unit’. He is a dedicated advocate for the advancement of indigenous people in the entertainment industry.

Zahn McClarnon

Zahn McClarnon is of Hunkpapa Lakota descent and has become a standout performer in recent years. He is highly acclaimed for his roles in ‘Fargo’ and the series ‘Longmire’. McClarnon also portrays a lead character in the show ‘Dark Winds’. His work is frequently praised for its intensity and depth.

Chaske Spencer

Chaske Spencer is of Lakota and Cherokee heritage as well as Muscogee and Nez Perce descent. He rose to fame playing the werewolf pack leader Sam Uley in ‘The Twilight Saga’. Spencer recently earned critical acclaim for his performance in the miniseries ‘The English’. He continues to work steadily in both television and independent films.

Eddie Spears

Eddie Spears is a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe and has been acting since his youth. He is best known for his lead role in the film ‘Dreamkeeper’ and his appearance in ‘Into the West’. Spears often works alongside his brother Michael Spears in various productions. He has a strong presence in films that focus on indigenous history and culture.

Martin Sensmeier

Martin Sensmeier is of Tlingit and Koyukon Athabascan descent from Alaska. He had a breakout role in the remake of ‘The Magnificent Seven’. Sensmeier has also appeared in ‘Westworld’ and ‘Wind River’. He is known for his athletic background and his commitment to portraying indigenous characters with integrity.

Nathaniel Arcand

Nathaniel Arcand is a Plains Cree actor from the Alexander First Nation. He is well known for his long running role as Scott Cardinal in the series ‘Heartland’. Arcand has appeared in many indigenous centered projects including ‘North of 60’ and ‘FBI Most Wanted’. He is a veteran performer in the Canadian television industry.

Rudy Youngblood

Rudy Youngblood is of Comanche and Yaqui descent and was born in Texas. He is most famous for playing the lead role of Jaguar Paw in the film ‘Apocalypto’. Youngblood is also a talented artist and musician who has participated in various indigenous cultural events. He continues to appear in action oriented film projects.

Saginaw Grant

Saginaw Grant was a member of the Sac and Fox Nation and served as a traditional dancer and elder. He appeared in ‘The Lone Ranger’ and had a memorable guest role in the series ‘Breaking Bad’. Grant was highly respected in the industry for his authenticity and kind spirit. He worked in Hollywood for several decades until his passing.

Wes Brown

Wes Brown has Cherokee heritage and often mentions his family roots in interviews. He is a familiar face to fans of the Hallmark Channel where he has starred in numerous romantic films. Brown also had recurring roles in ‘Hart of Dixie’ and ‘True Blood’. His versatility allows him to work across various television genres.

Kalani Queypo

Kalani Queypo is of Blackfeet and Native Hawaiian descent and works as an actor and filmmaker. He is known for his roles in ‘The New World’ and the series ‘Jamestown’. Queypo has been active in promoting indigenous stories through the New York stage and independent cinema. He recently appeared in the television show ‘Trickster’.

Eugene Brave Rock

Eugene Brave Rock is a member of the Kainai Nation and has worked as both a stuntman and actor. He gained international attention for his role as The Chief in ‘Wonder Woman’. Brave Rock was given the freedom to speak his native Blackfoot language in the film. He has a long history of working in Western productions across North America and Europe.

Rick Mora

Rick Mora is of Yaqui and Apache heritage and has a diverse career as a model and actor. He appeared in the opening sequences of ‘Twilight’ and has worked on several independent films. Mora is an advocate for indigenous rights and frequently speaks at cultural events. He is often recognized for his striking appearance and dedication to his heritage.

Christian Kane

Christian Kane is of Cherokee descent and often reflects on his upbringing in Oklahoma. He is well known for his roles in the television series ‘Leverage’ and ‘Angel’. Kane is also a successful musician and has contributed songs to the soundtracks of his projects. He continues to star in action oriented roles such as those in ‘Almost Paradise’.

Tyson Houseman

Tyson Houseman is a Cree actor who is best known for his role in ‘The Twilight Saga’. He played the character Quil Ateara after being discovered at an open casting call. Houseman has also worked in theater and voice acting projects. He continues to explore various creative avenues within the arts.

Justin Rain

Justin Rain is a Plains Cree actor from the Yellow Quill First Nation. He is known for his work in the series ‘Defiance’ and ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. Rain has also appeared in the film ‘The Twilight Saga Eclipse’. He is passionate about sharing his journey of overcoming personal challenges to find success in acting.

Tatanka Means

Tatanka Means is of Oglala Lakota and Omaha heritage and is a multi talented performer. He is a stand up comedian and an actor who has appeared in ‘The Son’ and ‘Saints and Strangers’. Means is also known for his role in the film ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. He uses his platform to bring awareness to modern indigenous issues through humor and drama.

Noah Watts

Noah Watts is a member of the Crow and Blackfeet nations and is an accomplished actor and musician. He is best known for providing the voice and motion capture for Connor Kenway in ‘Assassins Creed III’. Watts has also appeared in several films and television series including ‘Sons of Anarchy’. He remains active in both the gaming and film industries.

Cody Kearsley

Cody Kearsley is a Metis actor from British Columbia who has gained fame in young adult television. He is well known for his role as Moose Mason in the series ‘Riverdale’. Kearsley also starred in the Netflix series ‘Daybreak’. He continues to build a diverse portfolio with roles in science fiction and drama.

Forrest Goodluck

Forrest Goodluck is of Dine and Mandan heritage as well as Hidatsa and Tsimshian descent. He had a major breakthrough playing Leonardo DiCaprio’s son in ‘The Revenant’. Goodluck has since starred in ‘The Miseducation of Cameron Post’ and ‘Cherry’. He is considered one of the most promising young actors of his generation.

Blair Redford

Blair Redford has Cherokee heritage and has been a steady presence in television for years. He starred in the superhero series ‘The Gifted’ and the drama ‘The Lying Game’. Redford has also appeared in ‘Switched at Birth’ and ‘Satisfaction’. His work spans across major networks and various genres.

James Duval

James Duval is of mixed descent including Native American roots through his mother. He is a cult film icon known for his roles in ‘Donnie Darko’ and ‘Independence Day’. Duval was a frequent collaborator with director Gregg Araki in the 1990s. He continues to act in independent films and remains a favorite at fan conventions.

Armie Hammer

Armie Hammer has stated that his family has Cherokee heritage on his father’s side. He gained widespread fame for his dual role in ‘The Social Network’ and his lead in ‘Call Me by Your Name’. The actor has appeared in major films like ‘The Man from UNCLE’ and ‘Lone Ranger’. His career has involved a mix of independent dramas and big budget studio projects.

Kevin Costner

Kevin Costner has mentioned that he has Cherokee ancestry in his family lineage. He is deeply connected to indigenous history through his work on ‘Dances with Wolves’ which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Costner currently stars in the massive television hit ‘Yellowstone’. He has been a major Hollywood star for over three decades.

Josh Lucas

Josh Lucas has Cherokee heritage and has spoken about his Southern roots in the past. He is known for his roles in ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ and ‘A Beautiful Mind’. Lucas also portrays the younger version of John Dutton in the series ‘Yellowstone’. His career includes a variety of performances in both film and television.

Clint Walker

Clint Walker was of Cherokee descent on his mother’s side and became a massive star in the 1950s. He was best known for his role as Cheyenne Bodie in the television series ‘Cheyenne’. Walker was famous for his imposing physical stature and deep voice. He also appeared in classic films such as ‘The Dirty Dozen’.

Kiowa Gordon

Kiowa Gordon is a member of the Hualapai Nation and rose to fame in ‘The Twilight Saga’. He played the character Embry Call as part of the werewolf pack. Gordon currently stars as Jim Chee in the acclaimed series ‘Dark Winds’. He has also worked on various independent film projects throughout his career.

Alex Meraz

Alex Meraz is of Purepecha descent and is an actor as well as a skilled martial artist. He is widely recognized for his role as Paul Lahote in ‘The Twilight Saga’. Meraz has appeared in ‘Suicide Squad’ and the television series ‘Animal Kingdom’. He is known for bringing a strong physical presence to his characters.

Bronson Pelletier

Bronson Pelletier is a Plains Cree actor from Alberta who gained international recognition in ‘The Twilight Saga’. He played the character Jared Cameron in several films of the series. Pelletier started his career in Canadian television shows like ‘reGEnesis’. He continues to work on various projects within the film industry.

Steve Reevis

Steve Reevis was a member of the Blackfeet Nation and had a prolific career in Hollywood. He is well remembered for his roles in ‘Fargo’ and ‘Dances with Wolves’. Reevis often played characters that showcased the dignity and strength of indigenous people. He was a respected figure in the community until his passing in 2017.

Michael Greyeyes

Michael Greyeyes is a Plains Cree actor and director from the Muskeg Lake First Nation. He has received significant acclaim for his lead role in the film ‘Wild Indian’. Greyeyes also starred in the series ‘Rutherford Falls’ and ‘I Know This Much Is True’. He is a highly educated artist who has contributed greatly to indigenous academic studies.

David Midthunder

David Midthunder is of Hunkpapa Lakota descent and has appeared in dozens of films and television shows. He has had roles in ‘Westworld’ and ‘Longmire’ as well as the film ‘Hostiles’. Midthunder is often cast in roles that require a strong connection to traditional indigenous culture. He continues to be a sought after performer for Western and historical dramas.

Tell us which of these talented actors surprised you the most by sharing your thoughts in the comments.