Actors Accused of Taking Indigenous Roles Without Backlash

Throughout film history, it was common practice to cast well-known male actors as Indigenous characters, even if they had no actual Indigenous ancestry. Today, audiences expect accurate representation, but in the past, this wasn’t always the case. Sometimes actors would claim vague connections to Indigenous cultures, while more often they were chosen for their fame or how they looked. Although these casting choices occasionally sparked debate, the actors rarely faced serious consequences. This compilation highlights several instances of popular male stars playing Indigenous roles in movies and television over the years.

Johnny Depp

As a movie fan, I remember a lot of talk when Johnny Depp played Tonto in ‘The Lone Ranger.’ He mentioned having some Native American roots, and actually worked closely with the Comanche Nation, who even gave him an honorary adoption during filming. There was definitely some debate about whether he should have played the role, but it didn’t seem to hurt his career much. What I found interesting was that he based his look for the character on a painting, not necessarily on how Native Americans actually looked at the time. It’s a role that still comes up when people talk about representation in movies today, and whether casting choices like that are appropriate.

Iron Eyes Cody

Iron Eyes Cody was well-known as an advocate for Native American environmental causes, largely due to his role in a popular public service announcement. Throughout his acting career, which spanned over two hundred films, he portrayed numerous Indigenous characters and publicly identified as Cherokee and Cree. However, it was discovered after his death that he was actually of Italian ancestry and had no Native American background. Despite this revelation, he remained a respected figure for many years and wasn’t publicly challenged about his identity during his life. His life offers a striking case of an actor who successfully presented himself as Native American to advance his career.

Taylor Lautner

Taylor Lautner became famous for playing Jacob Black in ‘The Twilight Saga,’ a series that features a fictionalized version of the Quileute Tribe. While he mentioned having some Native American roots, he didn’t share details about his tribal affiliation publicly. Despite this, fans generally accepted his casting without major complaints. The films made him an international star and a popular teen idol in the late 2000s, and he continued to play Jacob in all five movies.

Burt Lancaster

I recently watched ‘Apache’ and was really struck by Burt Lancaster’s performance as Massai, this incredible Apache warrior. The movie tells the story of his fight to protect his family and avoid being captured by the US Army. It’s easy to see why Lancaster, who was a huge star back then, was cast – the studio probably thought he’d bring in audiences. It’s interesting though, because while the film tried to show the Native American side of things, they still had a non-Native actor in the lead role. That was pretty common for movies made in the mid-1900s, and honestly, it didn’t get nearly the criticism it would get today.

Chuck Connors

In the early 1960s, Chuck Connors played the famous Apache leader Geronimo in a film. Connors was well-known for his roles in Western TV shows, and he brought a familiar face to the part. The filmmakers used makeup to change his appearance to match how people imagined the character. However, despite Geronimo being a significant historical figure, they didn’t choose an actor of Apache descent for the role. Connors went on to enjoy a long and successful career acting in Westerns after this film.

Elvis Presley

In the film ‘Flaming Star,’ Elvis Presley played Pacer Burton, a character with a mixed racial background. The movie explores the conflicts between his family and their community. This role was different from his usual lighthearted musicals and gave him a chance to prove he could be a serious actor. While Elvis himself didn’t have Native American ancestry, his popularity meant most people didn’t question his casting. Despite the fact that the casting wasn’t authentic, ‘Flaming Star’ is often considered one of his best dramatic performances.

Paul Newman

In the western film ‘Hombre,’ Paul Newman played John Russell, a man raised by the Apache, who finds himself bridging two cultures. He uses his unique abilities to safeguard a group of people who initially underestimate him. Newman was a huge movie star at the time, and his involvement was a key reason audiences went to see the film. ‘Hombre’ explores ideas about doing what’s right and overcoming prejudice, rather than focusing on the actor’s background. His performance was well-received, and the casting didn’t cause significant debate when the movie came out.

Boris Karloff

Boris Karloff, best known for his horror films, played Chief Guyasuta in the 1940s historical drama ‘Unconquered’. He often took on a wide range of characters, and this role involved a lot of makeup and a performance style common for the era. Unlike today, there wasn’t public criticism of a non-Indigenous actor playing an Indigenous role, as it was typical practice to cast established actors in such parts. This performance is still a memorable part of Karloff’s long and varied film career.

Charles Bronson

Charles Bronson starred in the western film ‘Chato’s Land’ as an Apache man hunted by a group seeking to lynch him. His Lithuanian background often led to him being cast in tough or culturally specific roles. The film is a raw and realistic portrayal of survival, focusing on the character’s strength and ability to withstand attacks. Bronson went on to become a famous action star, and playing Native American or Indigenous characters was a common part of his early work. He generally didn’t receive criticism for these roles, as audiences and critics alike felt he brought authenticity to them.

Jeff Chandler

Jeff Chandler famously played the Apache leader Cochise in the film ‘Broken Arrow,’ and continued to play the character in other works. He was a well-liked leading actor and even received an Academy Award nomination for his role in the movie. ‘Broken Arrow’ was ahead of its time, as it tried to show the Apache people with respect and understanding. Though Chandler himself wasn’t Native American, his performance became the most well-known version of Cochise for many viewers in the 1950s. He continued to have success in his career until his unexpected death ten years later.

Rock Hudson

Rock Hudson starred in ‘Taza, Son of Cochise,’ a continuation of films about the Apache leader Cochise. As a hugely popular romantic leading man in Hollywood, Hudson was cast to help bring in a large audience. The movie was filmed in 3D and showed Hudson wearing traditional Native American clothing and with darkened skin. This kind of physical transformation for white actors was common at the time and rarely questioned. Hudson continued to be a major movie star for many years after this film.

Charlton Heston

In the film ‘The Savage,’ Charlton Heston played a man adopted and raised by the Sioux tribe after losing his family. The story centers on his difficult choice between loyalty to his adopted family and reconnecting with his original roots. Heston was famous for his powerful presence on screen and frequently portrayed larger-than-life, heroic characters. His performance in this film, typical of the dramatic style of the 1950s, didn’t spark much discussion about his own background. He ultimately became one of the most recognizable actors in grand, historical films.

Victor Mature

In the mid-1950s, Victor Mature played the famous Native American leader Chief Crazy Horse in a film of the same name. Mature was a popular actor, well-known for his work in grand historical dramas and dark, suspenseful films. The movie tells the story of Crazy Horse, an Oglala Lakota warrior, and his fight against the growing presence of the United States. Although the film aimed to portray a Native American story, it did so with a non-Native actor in the lead role. This type of casting was common at the time, and Mature didn’t receive the same scrutiny that an actor would likely face today for taking on such a role.

Robert Taylor

I recently watched ‘Devil’s Doorway,’ and it really stuck with me. Robert Taylor plays a Shoshone man coming home after the Civil War, only to find people trying to take his land. It’s a pretty somber film, and it doesn’t shy away from showing how unfairly Native Americans were treated. Because Taylor was a big star at MGM, the movie got a lot more attention, which was good because it had an important message. It’s a bit frustrating though, that even with such a serious story, a white actor was cast in the lead role with makeup. Still, even film experts often say Taylor gave a strong performance, though it’s hard to ignore that the casting wasn’t really authentic.

Ricardo Montalban

Ricardo Montalban, a talented Mexican actor, appeared alongside Clark Gable in ‘Across the Wide Missouri’ where he played a character called Iron Shirt. Throughout his extensive Hollywood career, he often played characters of different ethnicities, including Indigenous warriors – a common practice for Latino actors during that time. Montalban was known for his charm and was well-respected in the entertainment world. While he later became famous for his television work, these early roles demonstrated his range as an actor.

Anthony Quinn

Anthony Quinn, a celebrated actor of Mexican and Irish heritage, powerfully played an Inuk man in the film ‘The Savage Innocents’. The movie examines the conflicts that arise when different cultures meet in the Arctic. Quinn was known for convincingly portraying people from various nationalities, and his performance in the film was both physically demanding and emotionally resonant, mirroring the challenging Arctic setting. Though not Indigenous himself, his ability to embody diverse characters frequently led to roles like this one. He earned widespread praise for his acting and continued to be a popular and respected performer throughout his career.

Lou Diamond Phillips

Lou Diamond Phillips became well-known for playing Jose Chavez y Chavez in the movie ‘Young Guns’. While he has some Cherokee roots, he’s largely identified with his Filipino heritage. His performance was key to the film’s popularity, and he reprised the role in the sequel. Audiences readily accepted him in the part, which helped him build a lasting career in film and television. Throughout his career, he’s frequently played Native American or Indigenous characters without much criticism.

William Shatner

In the low-budget western ‘White Comanche’, William Shatner took on a dual role, including a man who had become fully immersed in Indigenous life. Made during a pause in his popular television work, the film showcased Shatner’s signature dramatic style as he played twin brothers. While it didn’t receive much notice from critics or audiences when it came out, ‘White Comanche’ has since gained a following as a cult classic, largely due to the unique nature of Shatner’s performance.

Yul Brynner

Yul Brynner, a famous actor of Russian origin known for his striking looks and strong voice, played Chief Black Eagle in the film ‘Kings of the Sun.’ The movie takes place in the ancient Mayan world and centers on his character, a leader who attempts to forge an alliance with newcomers. Casting an international star like Brynner in a role depicting an ancient or Indigenous culture was a common practice at the time. He was a major celebrity, and the film’s promotion heavily featured his performance.

Henry Silva

Henry Silva was a busy character actor with a memorable look and a talent for playing intimidating roles. While his family background was Sicilian and Spanish, he often portrayed people of various ethnicities, including Indigenous characters like ‘Chink’ in the western film ‘The Tall T.’ Directors loved the unique energy he brought to his performances, and he’s fondly remembered by classic movie fans, particularly for his work in westerns.

Michael Ansara

Michael Ansara, a Syrian American actor, is best remembered for playing Cochise in the TV series ‘Broken Arrow’. He brought a sense of respect and humanity to the role, which was a departure from how Native Americans were typically portrayed at the time. The show was a hit and helped many Americans see Cochise as a complex person. Ansara became known for playing strong, similar characters throughout his career and was well-regarded by his peers until his passing.

Sal Mineo

Sal Mineo played a character called Red Shirt in John Ford’s sweeping western, ‘Cheyenne Autumn.’ He was a rising star known for his roles in modern dramas. The movie aimed to tell the story of the Cheyenne people’s struggles with a grand, historical scope. Mineo was one of many non-Native actors cast in key roles. Though intended as a respectful portrayal of the Cheyenne, the film still depended on well-known Hollywood actors to play its central characters.

George Chakiris

George Chakiris, fresh off his Academy Award win for ‘West Side Story’, played a Mayan leader in ‘Kings of the Sun’ alongside Yul Brynner. For the role, the Greek American actor wore authentic costumes and body paint. While a visually impressive film, ‘Kings of the Sun’ prioritized spectacle over historical accuracy. Chakiris continued to enjoy a long and successful international career in entertainment.

Jack Palance

Jack Palance starred as Toriano in ‘Arrowhead,’ a film about the clash between the U.S. cavalry and the Apache people. He was famous for playing strong, often villainous characters in Westerns and dark crime films. His striking looks and height made him a commanding figure on screen, something directors often took advantage of. In ‘Arrowhead,’ he played a character who fiercely opposed the arrival of settlers. Casting Palance as a Native American character was typical of the time, when Hollywood often relied on actors who could play a variety of roles, including those of Indigenous people.

Tommy Lee Jones

In the film ‘The Missing,’ Tommy Lee Jones played a man who had spent years living among the Apache. Jones has said he believes he has some Cherokee roots, although he isn’t officially enrolled in any tribe. The movie is a gritty western about his character trying to reconnect with his daughter while pursuing those who kidnapped her. Critics admired Jones’s realistic and tough performance, fitting for the western genre. The film didn’t receive much criticism regarding his heritage or how he played the role.

Noah Ringer

Noah Ringer played the main character in the live-action movie ‘The Last Airbender,’ which was based on a popular animated series. The story’s world draws heavily from Inuit and East Asian cultures, and the characters’ designs reflect that. Ringer, who is white, was cast in the role, and this decision led to some debate among fans of the original show. Despite the criticism, the film, a large studio production, was released as planned, and Ringer delivered his performance. At the time, he was a young martial artist, and this role marked his first significant professional acting experience.

Pierce Brosnan

The film ‘Grey Owl’ stars Pierce Brosnan as the story of Archie Belaney, a British man who lived in Canada pretending to be Indigenous. Belaney lived a double life as both a fur trapper and someone dedicated to protecting the environment. The movie depicts his life and the eventual reveal that he wasn’t who he claimed to be, portrayed with a dramatic flair by Brosnan. Because the real Archie Belaney wasn’t Indigenous, many felt it was fitting to cast a non-Indigenous actor in the role. The film explores themes of identity and the importance of conservation.

Val Kilmer

In the film ‘Thunderheart,’ Val Kilmer played an FBI agent who learns he has Sioux roots while solving a murder on a Native American reservation. Kilmer, who has stated he has some Cherokee ancestry, connected with the local community during filming. The movie was praised for its realistic depiction of the challenges facing Indigenous people today. Because Kilmer was a popular actor at the time, his participation helped bring the film to a larger audience, and it’s often remembered as a thoughtful exploration of cultural identity in a contemporary setting.

Trevor Howard

Trevor Howard, a well-known British actor famous for his roles in classic dramas and war films, starred in ‘Windwalker,’ a movie set long ago among the Cheyenne and Crow tribes. The film was unique because a lot of the dialogue was in Indigenous languages with English subtitles. Howard was cast as the lead to help attract international audiences. Despite not being Native American himself, the film was praised for its careful and detailed portrayal of Indigenous culture.

Pedro Armendáriz

Pedro Armendáriz was a celebrated Mexican actor best known for roles like Sergeant Beaufort in ‘Fort Apache’. Though he often played characters with diverse backgrounds, he frequently portrayed Native American or Latino figures in Hollywood films. A close partner to director John Ford, Armendáriz was a prominent star in both the US and Mexico. His work in Westerns brought an international flavor to the genre, and he was widely admired for his skill as an actor. He was largely free from criticism, seen as someone who connected different film traditions.

J. Carrol Naish

J. Carrol Naish was a talented character actor with Irish roots who was well-known for convincingly playing people of many different backgrounds. He famously portrayed Sitting Bull in ‘Annie Get Your Gun’ and played numerous Native American characters throughout his career, often using makeup and accents to transform into his roles. Nominated for an Academy Award twice, Naish was considered one of the most adaptable actors of his time. The fact that filmmakers frequently used his abilities highlights how common it was to cast character actors in diverse roles.

Gilbert Roland

Gilbert Roland was a Mexican American actor well-known for portraying Native American characters in films like ‘The Last of the Mohicans’ and ‘Cheyenne Autumn’. He began his career as a leading man during the silent film era and continued to thrive when movies added sound. With his strong, handsome appearance and captivating personality, he was perfectly suited for Westerns. He frequently played roles that showed the courage and hardships of Indigenous people with understanding and respect. Roland enjoyed a long and successful career in Hollywood, and his background was never a source of controversy.

Robert Beltran

Robert Beltran is most famous for playing Commander Chakotay on ‘Star Trek: Voyager.’ His character was written as having Native American roots, and the show often featured storylines about his spirituality and background. While Beltran himself is of Mexican heritage, fans often discussed his character’s specific tribal affiliation. At the time the show aired, his portrayal was a significant step forward for Native American representation in science fiction. He played Chakotay for all seven seasons and remained popular with viewers throughout the series’ run.

Cliff Robertson

Cliff Robertson, a celebrated actor known for his thoughtful performances and an Academy Award winner, played a character with Native American ancestry in the early 2000s film ‘Sunshine State.’ The movie is a deep look into the lives of people in a small Florida town and how new development affects them. While the character’s background played a role, the film primarily focused on the social and financial changes happening in the area. Because ‘Sunshine State’ was a small, independent film, Robertson’s casting didn’t generate much public discussion.

Benicio del Toro

Benicio del Toro, a Puerto Rican actor known for his dedication to his roles, played a Blackfoot man in the film ‘Jimmy P.’, which tells the true story of a veteran dealing with emotional challenges. He collaborated with experts to respectfully and accurately depict the character’s difficulties. The film was well-received at film festivals, with critics particularly praising the lead actors. Although some people discussed the casting choice, most agreed that Del Toro delivered a nuanced and powerful performance.

Kelsey Grammer

Kelsey Grammer played the lead role in the TV movie ‘The Cherokee Kid,’ a comedy western where his character pretends to be Native American while going on adventures. The film is a playful take on classic western tropes and boasts a large cast of actors. Grammer, famous for his comedic roles on television, brought a humorous energy to the project. It wasn’t meant to be historically accurate or a serious portrayal of Native American culture; instead, it was designed as a lighthearted spoof. Audiences generally enjoyed his performance and the film’s comedic spin on the western genre.

Ramon Novarro

Ramon Novarro, a famous actor in silent films and of Mexican heritage, starred as a Navajo man in ‘Laughing Boy.’ The movie tells a love story challenged by the difficulties faced by Native Americans due to pressure from white society. Novarro was a huge star, and his involvement was a big deal for the studio. ‘Laughing Boy’ was one of Hollywood’s first efforts to create a thoughtful depiction of Native American life. Though the casting wouldn’t be considered accurate today, the film was an important production for its time.

Kirk Douglas

Kirk Douglas starred in ‘The Indian Fighter’ as a scout who develops a romance with the daughter of a Sioux chief. A hugely popular actor known for his energetic and powerful performances across various film types, Douglas also produced the movie. The film includes scenes meant to offer a glimpse into the Sioux perspective during the conflict, and Douglas’s involvement was key to its success. He remained a major force in Hollywood throughout his long career.

Dean Martin

Dean Martin’s western comedy, ‘Texas Across the River,’ features him interacting with a Comanche tribe. The movie playfully pokes fun at classic western themes, though it uses non-Indigenous actors in stereotypical roles. As a hugely popular entertainer, Martin guaranteed a wide audience. The film’s humor comes from the contrast between cultures and the silly situations the characters find themselves in. Because it was clearly meant to be a lighthearted comedy, the film didn’t face major criticism.

Douglas Fairbanks

Douglas Fairbanks, a pioneer of the film industry known for his adventurous roles, starred in the silent movie ‘The Half-Breed’. The film tells the story of a man with a mixed racial background who faces prejudice in a mountain town, and ultimately overcomes those who oppose him. Released in the early 1900s, the film didn’t consider the importance of casting actors who shared the same background as their characters – a concept not widely discussed at the time. Fairbanks was the most popular male actor of his generation and played a key role in shaping how movie stars were perceived.

Share your thoughts on these casting choices in the comments.

2026-01-05 07:21