Kevin Costner breaks silence on Dances With Wolves co-star Graham Greene’s death

Kevin Costner has paid tribute to his Dances With Wolves co-star Graham Greene, who died on Monday, September 1, at a Toronto hospital at the age of 73 after a “lengthy illness”

Kevin Costner has paid a heartfelt tribute to his Dances With Wolves co-star Graham Greene.

The star of Yellowstone took to Instagram to honour the trailblazing Canadian First Nations actor following the news of his passing at the age of 73 on Monday, September 1. On Tuesday, September 2, he shared a post reminiscing about their time together on the iconic 1990 Western film, which included a scene featuring both him and Graham.

Kevin’s poignant tribute said: “A few things come to mind when I think of Graham Greene and our time together on Dances With Wolves.

“I think of how willing he was to learn the Lakota language. I think of my joy when I heard that his work on the film was recognized with an @theacademy Awards nomination.”

Graham earned an Oscar nod for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Kicking Bird (Ziŋtká Nagwáka), the medicine man of the Lakota tribe. The late actor was only the second Indigenous person to receive a Best Supporting Actor nomination, following Chief Dan George for his role in Little Big Man (1970).

Kevin continued: “And I think of this scene in particular, when he was able to establish so much about the relationship between Dunbar and the natives with so few words. He was a master at work and a wonderful human being.”

The 70 year old performer shared a clip from his maiden directorial effort featuring his character, Union army Lieutenant John J. Dunbar, attempting to communicate with Graham’s character, Kicking Bird.

A distinct language barrier existed between Lt. Dunbar and the Lakota group, yet through gestures, he managed to at least express the word buffalo.

The Bodyguard star wrapped up his post with: “I’m grateful to have been witness to this part of his lasting legacy. Rest in peace, Graham.”

This follows Graham’s death on September 1 “after a lengthy illness,” according to his representative Michael Greene who spoke to PEOPLE.

In an original statement to various media outlets announcing Graham’s passing, Michael wrote: “He was a great man of morals, ethics and character and will be eternally missed. You are finally free. Susan Smith is meeting you at the gates of heaven.”

Michael was referencing Graham’s long-time representative, who died in 2013.

Greene began his acting career on stage during the 70s. Graham made his television debut in an episode of the Canadian drama series The Great Detective in 1979 and his cinema debut with Running Brave (1983).

Graham’s illustrious career spanned a variety of projects, including Thunderheart (1992), Maverick (1994), Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995), The Green Mile (1999), The Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009), Molly’s Game (2017) and Wind River. His television credits are equally impressive, featuring roles in The Red Green Show (1994-2006), Defiance (2013-2015), Longmire (2014-2017), Goliath (2019), American Gods, (2021), and the upcoming The Last of Us (2023).

The beloved 73 year old is survived by his wife, Hilary Blackmore, daughter Lilly Lazare-Greene, and grandson Tarlo.

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