‘He was the uncle that we all looked up to’: members of the local film, TV industry remember Graham Greene

The Alberta film industry is mourning the loss of Oscar-nominated Canadian First Nations actor Graham Greene, who passed away at the age of 73. Greene, known for his versatility and talent on screen, was a pioneer in paving the way for indigenous artists in the film and television industry.

Calgary’s Michelle Thrush, who had the privilege of working with Greene on several projects over the years, praised his impact as an indigenous actor. She highlighted the contributions of Greene and other veteran indigenous actors like Gary Farmer, August Schellenberg, and Tantoo Cardinal, who paved the way for the current generation of artists.

Thrush reminisced about her first collaboration with Greene on the Alberta-shot drama “North of 60” in the 1990s and their subsequent projects together. Greene’s work in various Alberta-shot films and TV projects, including “Medicine River” and “Into the West,” solidified his connection to the Alberta film industry.

One of Greene’s most memorable roles was in Kevin Costner’s “Dances with Wolves,” for which he received an Oscar nomination. Thrush recalled the significance of seeing one of their own achieve recognition on a global stage through Greene’s performance in the film.

Tom Jackson, a Calgary actor and close friend of Greene, shared fond memories of their friendship and collaborations over the years. They worked together on projects like “Medicine River” and “Spirit Bay,” forming a deep bond both on and off-screen.

In addition to their artistic collaborations, Jackson and Greene also engaged in charity work, including fundraising efforts for food banks and flood relief concerts. Jackson emphasized Greene’s commitment to giving back to the community and his dedication to using his platform for philanthropic endeavors.

Greene’s sense of humor, storytelling prowess, and commanding presence on screen made him a beloved figure in the industry. His ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and drama roles showcased his versatility as an actor.

Thrush fondly recalled a poignant moment filming with Greene in South Dakota, where his vulnerability and emotional depth shone through during a challenging scene. Despite his occasional grumpiness on set, Greene’s genuine warmth and talent endeared him to all who worked with him.

The legacy of Graham Greene’s work and impact on the Alberta film industry will continue to inspire future generations of indigenous artists. His contributions to film and television will be remembered fondly by those who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.