Actresses You Probably Didn’t Know Are Part Native American

The film and television industry features a wide array of talent with diverse backgrounds that often remain unknown to the general public. Many prominent actresses possess Native American heritage that has influenced their personal identities and professional journeys. From Golden Age icons to modern blockbuster stars these women represent various tribal nations across North and South America. Understanding these cultural roots provides a deeper appreciation for the rich history and diversity found within Hollywood entertainment.

Cameron Diaz

Cameron Diaz rose to international fame after appearing in the movie ‘The Mask’ alongside Jim Carrey. She has often spoken about her diverse ethnic background which includes Cherokee ancestry from her father’s side of the family. The actress became one of the highest paid women in Hollywood during the late nineties and early two thousands. Her career spans multiple genres including romantic comedies and high stakes action films like ‘Charlie’s Angels’ and ‘Vanilla Sky’.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox became a household name after her breakout role in the action film ‘Transformers’. She has stated in various interviews that she has Cherokee heritage within her family lineage. Beyond her work in big budget blockbusters she has appeared in cult classics like ‘Jennifer’s Body’ and television series such as ‘New Girl’. Her career has seen her transition from a prominent leading lady to a variety of roles in the horror and comedy genres.

Cher

Cher is an Academy Award winning actress and singer known for her unique voice and style. She possesses Cherokee ancestry through her mother Georgia Holt who was of English and Irish descent as well. Cher won an Oscar for her performance in ‘Moonstruck’ and starred in other acclaimed films including ‘Mask’ and ‘The Witches of Eastwick’. Her legacy in the entertainment world spans several decades across both the music and film industries.

Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba is widely recognized for her roles in ‘Dark Angel’ and ‘Fantastic Four’. She has Indigenous Mexican heritage through her father which connects her to Mayan roots. In addition to her acting career she founded a successful consumer goods company that focuses on natural products. Alba has often discussed her pride in her diverse background and how it shaped her experiences in Hollywood.

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus first rose to prominence as the star of the hit television show ‘Hannah Montana’. She has confirmed her Cherokee ancestry through her family history on her father’s side. While she is primarily known for her music career she has also appeared in films like ‘The Last Song’ and ‘LOL’. Her public image has evolved significantly since her early days as a child star on the Disney Channel.

Heather Locklear

Heather Locklear is best known for her iconic roles on television series like ‘Dynasty’ and ‘Melrose Place’. She has Lumbee heritage through her father who was a notable figure at the University of California. The actress became a staple of primetime television during the eighties and nineties with her memorable performances. She has received multiple Golden Globe nominations for her work in long running dramatic series.

Demi Moore

Demi Moore was one of the highest paid actresses in the world during the early nineties. She has Cherokee roots that contribute to her diverse genetic makeup. Moore starred in massive hits such as ‘Ghost’ and ‘A Few Good Men’ which solidified her status as a major star. Her career continues to thrive with roles in both independent films and mainstream television projects.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams made history as the first African American woman to be crowned Miss America. She later revealed through genealogical testing that she has Native American ancestry among other diverse backgrounds. Williams is an accomplished actress known for her roles in ‘Ugly Betty’ and ‘Desperate Housewives’. She also enjoys a successful career as a recording artist and Broadway performer.

Adriana Lima

Adriana Lima is primarily famous for her extensive work as a Victoria’s Secret Angel. She has Indigenous Pataxó heritage from Brazil which she has mentioned in various profiles. While best known for modeling she has appeared in acting roles in projects like ‘The Follow’. Her international success has made her one of the most recognizable figures in the fashion world for over two decades.

Q’orianka Kilcher

Q’orianka Kilcher first gained major attention for her portrayal of Pocahontas in the film ‘The New World’. She is of Quechua and Huachipaeri descent from Peru through her father. Kilcher has continued to advocate for Indigenous rights while pursuing a steady acting career in shows like ‘Yellowstone’ and ‘The Alienist’. Her performances are often praised for their emotional depth and historical significance.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldana has appeared in some of the highest grossing films of all time including ‘Avatar’ and ‘Avengers: Endgame’. She has Taino heritage from the Dominican Republic as part of her diverse Caribbean background. Saldana has consistently broken barriers for women of color in the science fiction and action genres. She remains one of the most bankable stars in modern cinema due to her involvement in major franchises.

Irene Bedard

Irene Bedard is a highly respected actress who is of Inupiat and Métis descent. She is perhaps most famous for providing the voice and physical likeness for the titular character in the Disney film ‘Pocahontas’. Bedard has appeared in numerous projects that center on Native American stories such as ‘Smoke Signals’ and ‘Longmire’. She continues to be a prominent voice and advocate for the representation of Indigenous people in media.

Tantoo Cardinal

Tantoo Cardinal is a celebrated Canadian actress of Métis heritage with a career spanning several decades. She has appeared in major films like ‘Dances with Wolves’ and ‘Legends of the Fall’. Cardinal was named a Member of the Order of Canada for her contributions to the arts and her community. Her work frequently explores the complex history and contemporary lives of Indigenous peoples.

Julia Jones

Julia Jones is known for her roles in ‘The Twilight Saga’ and the thriller film ‘Wind River’. She has Choctaw and Chickasaw ancestry along with other ethnic backgrounds. Jones has also appeared in television series like ‘Westworld’ and ‘The Mandalorian’. She often brings a grounded and intense presence to the diverse characters she portrays on screen.

Sheila Tousey

Sheila Tousey is an actress of Menominee and Stockbridge-Munsee heritage who has worked extensively in film and theater. She appeared in the film ‘Thunderheart’ and had a recurring role on the television drama ‘Law & Order’. Tousey is respected for her powerful performances and her commitment to authentic storytelling. She has been a fixture in projects that highlight Native American experiences for many years.

Elaine Miles

Elaine Miles became famous for her role as Marilyn Whirlwind on the television series ‘Northern Exposure’. She is of Cayuse and Nez Perce descent and was discovered by chance during an open casting call. Her portrayal of a stoic and wise assistant was highly praised by both critics and audiences. Miles has since appeared in various independent films and television projects that celebrate her cultural heritage.

Lily Gladstone

Lily Gladstone received critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. She is of Blackfeet and Nez Perce heritage and grew up on the Blackfeet Reservation. Before her breakout role she starred in independent films like ‘Certain Women’ and ‘First Cow’. Her performance in the Martin Scorsese film marked a historic moment for Indigenous representation in Hollywood.

Amber Midthunder

Amber Midthunder is an actress and a member of the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes. She gained international recognition for her leading role in the film ‘Prey’ which is part of the ‘Predator’ franchise. Midthunder has also appeared in television shows such as ‘Legion’ and ‘Roswell New Mexico’. She is often highlighted as a rising star who is redefining action roles for Indigenous women.

Devery Jacobs

Devery Jacobs is a Mohawk actress known for her starring role in the critically acclaimed series ‘Reservation Dogs’. She also appeared in the film ‘Rhymes for Young Ghouls’ and the television series ‘Echo’. In addition to acting she is a writer and director who focuses on telling authentic Indigenous stories. Jacobs has become a prominent figure in the recent wave of Indigenous led entertainment.

Alaqua Cox

Alaqua Cox made her acting debut as Maya Lopez in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series ‘Hawkeye’. She is a member of the Menominee and Mohican nations and is also deaf. Her character later received a standalone series titled ‘Echo’ which explores her Indigenous roots. Cox is celebrated for breaking multiple barriers as an actress with her powerful on screen presence.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson is a versatile actress known for films like ‘Rent’ and ‘Sin City’. She has stated in interviews that she has Taino and Seminole heritage as part of her diverse background. Dawson has played significant roles in the Marvel television universe and the ‘Star Wars’ franchise as Ahsoka Tano. She is also widely recognized for her political activism and community involvement.

Michelle Thrush

Michelle Thrush is a Cree actress who has worked extensively in Canadian film and television. She is best known for her role in the series ‘Blackstone’ for which she won a Gemini Award. Thrush has also appeared in films like ‘Dead Man’ and ‘Jimmy P’ as well as the show ‘North of 60’. Her career is dedicated to portraying complex Indigenous characters with honesty and depth.

Jessica Matten

Jessica Matten is an actress of Red River Métis and Cree descent who has appeared in several popular series. She is well known for her roles in ‘Frontier’ and the police drama ‘Tribal’. Matten is also a producer and entrepreneur who works to empower Indigenous youth through various initiatives. Her work on screen often highlights the strength and resilience of Indigenous women.

Grace Dove

Grace Dove is a Secwépemc actress who appeared alongside Leonardo DiCaprio in ‘The Revenant’. She has also starred in the film ‘How It Ends’ and the television series ‘Alaska Daily’. Dove is committed to increasing representation for Indigenous people in the mainstream entertainment industry. Her performances have been noted for their emotional authenticity and physical commitment.

Jana Schmieding

Jana Schmieding is a Cheyenne River Lakota actress and writer who rose to fame on the sitcom ‘Rutherford Falls’. She is one of the first Indigenous women to serve as a series lead on a mainstream television show. Schmieding has also appeared in the comedy series ‘Reservation Dogs’ in a recurring role. Her work often utilizes humor to address serious social issues affecting Native American communities.

Kali Reis

Kali Reis is an actress and professional boxer of Seaconke Wampanoag and Cherokee descent. She made her acting debut in the film ‘Catch the Fair One’ which she also co wrote. Reis gained further recognition for her starring role in the fourth season of ‘True Detective’. Her transition from world champion boxing to acclaimed acting has been met with significant praise.

Yalitza Aparicio

Yalitza Aparicio received an Academy Award nomination for her film debut in ‘Roma’. She is of Mixtec and Triqui descent from the state of Oaxaca in Mexico. Before becoming an actress she was training to be a preschool teacher in her hometown. Aparicio has since become a prominent advocate for Indigenous rights and domestic workers around the world.

Sacheen Littlefeather

Sacheen Littlefeather was an actress and activist who became famous for her appearance at the 1973 Academy Awards. She represented Marlon Brando to decline his award while speaking about the treatment of Native Americans in film. Littlefeather had White Mountain Apache and Yaqui heritage which she championed throughout her life. Her legacy remains a significant part of the history of activism within Hollywood.

Misty Upham

Misty Upham was a Blackfeet actress known for her powerful performance in the film ‘Frozen River’. She also appeared in ‘August: Osage County’ and ‘Django Unchained’ during her respected career. Upham was recognized for her ability to bring intensity and realism to her supporting roles. She was a dedicated member of the Indigenous acting community until her passing in 2014.

Vanessa Hudgens

Vanessa Hudgens became a star through the ‘High School Musical’ franchise on the Disney Channel. She has mentioned in interviews that she has Native American heritage along with her Filipino and Irish roots. Hudgens has since transitioned to mature roles in films like ‘Spring Breakers’ and ‘Tick Tick Boom’. She is also a frequent performer in live musical television productions.

Kelsey Asbille

Kelsey Asbille is an actress who stars as Monica Dutton in the hit series ‘Yellowstone’. She has stated that she possesses Cherokee ancestry which has been a topic of discussion regarding her casting. Asbille previously appeared in shows like ‘One Tree Hill’ and ‘Teen Wolf’ earlier in her career. She continues to work in major television productions that explore Western themes and family dynamics.

Cheri Oteri

Cheri Oteri is a comedian and actress who was a regular cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. She has Cherokee heritage that she has acknowledged as part of her family background. Oteri is famous for her high energy characters and impressions that entertained audiences for many years. She continues to provide voice work and guest appearances in various television comedies.

Shannon Elizabeth

Shannon Elizabeth is best known for her role in the comedy hit ‘American Pie’. She has stated that she is of Cherokee descent on her father’s side along with other backgrounds. Elizabeth has appeared in various films including ‘Scary Movie’ and ‘Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back’. She is also known for her work as a poker player and her efforts in animal conservation.

Rita Moreno

Rita Moreno is one of the few performers to achieve EGOT status by winning an Emmy Grammy Oscar and Tony. She has Indigenous Taíno heritage from Puerto Rico which she has spoken about with pride. Moreno is legendary for her roles in ‘West Side Story’ and ‘The King and I’. Her career has spanned over seven decades in the entertainment industry across film theater and television.

Kim Basinger

Kim Basinger won an Academy Award for her performance in the film ‘L.A. Confidential’. She has Cherokee and Muscogee Creek ancestry that contributes to her family history. Basinger was a major star in the eighties and nineties with roles in ‘Batman’ and ‘9 1/2 Weeks’. She remains a respected actress and animal rights advocate within the Hollywood community.

Cote de Pablo

Cote de Pablo is an actress best known for her role as Ziva David on the series ‘NCIS’. She has Indigenous heritage from Chile through her mother’s family lineage. De Pablo won an ALMA Award for her performance in the long running procedural drama. She has also appeared in the miniseries ‘The Dovekeepers’ and the film ‘The 33’.

Jennifer Tilly

Jennifer Tilly is an actress and professional poker player known for her distinctive voice. She has Native American heritage through her father who was of Cherokee descent. Tilly received an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Bullets Over Broadway’ and is the star of the ‘Child’s Play’ franchise. She continues to be a popular figure in both the film industry and the world of competitive poker.

Meg Tilly

Meg Tilly is an actress and novelist who won a Golden Globe for her role in ‘Agnes of God’. Like her sister Jennifer she has Cherokee ancestry as part of her family heritage. She has starred in films such as ‘The Big Chill’ and ‘Valmont’ during her successful career. Tilly later transitioned into writing books while still appearing in television projects like ‘Bomb Girls’.

Shailene Woodley

Shailene Woodley is known for her roles in ‘The Descendants’ and the ‘Divergent’ series. She has confirmed her Cherokee heritage in interviews when discussing her family tree. Woodley is also highly recognized for her work in the series ‘Big Little Lies’ and her environmental activism. She has consistently chosen roles that challenge her as an actress in both film and television.

Salli Richardson-Whitfield

Salli Richardson-Whitfield is an actress and director who starred in the series ‘Eureka’. She has Cherokee heritage through her father who is of Italian and English descent as well. In addition to her acting career she has become a prolific director for major shows like ‘The Gilded Age’. Her work both in front of and behind the camera has made her a prominent figure in modern television.

Please share which of these talented performers surprised you the most in the comments.