19/08/2025
Jay Silverheels, best known for his portrayal of Tonto in The Lone Ranger television series (1949–1957), was a groundbreaking actor of Indigenous heritage who helped break stereotypes in Hollywood. Born Harold J. Smith on May 26, 1912, on the Six Nations Reserve in Ontario, Canada, he was an accomplished athlete before turning to acting. He excelled in lacrosse and even played professional sports before a chance encounter led him to Hollywood. His rugged looks and natural screen presence earned him roles in western films throughout the 1940s, but it was his role as Tonto that made him a cultural icon. Playing the loyal companion to Clayton Moore’s Lone Ranger, Silverheels brought dignity and intelligence to a character that could have been a simple sidekick.
Despite the limitations imposed by Hollywood at the time, Silverheels worked tirelessly to improve the portrayal of Native Americans on screen. He often spoke out against stereotypical depictions and sought roles that showcased Indigenous people in a more positive light. Beyond acting, he was a mentor and advocate for young Native American actors, encouraging them to pursue careers in the film industry. After his acting career slowed, Silverheels remained active in community work and even founded the Indian Actors Workshop. He passed away on March 5, 1980, but his contributions to film and representation continue to be honored today.
"The villains are fairly obvious in “Flower Moon,” but Scorsese asks audiences to take a wider look at systemic racism, historical injustice and the corruptive influence of power and money, intriguingly tying together our past and present." ~ Brian Truitt,
"Gladstone, in the rare Scorsese film that gives center stage to a female character, is the emotional core here, and it's her face that stays etched in our memory."
~ Jocelyn Noveck
“This is for every little Rez kid, every little urban kid, every little Native kid out there who has a dream and is seeing themselves represented in our stories told by ourselves, in our own words..." ~ Lily Gladstone
"We Are Still Here!" 🪶
Top 📸: Mollie Kyle (Burkhart, Cobb) Osage, (1886-1937)
Bottom: Lily Gladstone, (Blackfeet-Nez Perce
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