Graham Greene Death: Kevin Costner Tribute, Cause & Legacy

The Oneida actor from the Six Nations Reserve in Ontario, best known for his Oscar-nominated role as Kicking Bird in Dances with Wolves, died on September 1, 2025, at the age of 73. His passing has prompted a wave of tributes, including a heartfelt statement from his longtime friend and co-star Kevin Costner. Here’s what we know about his final days, his legacy, and the personal battles he faced.

Born: June 22, 1952, Six Nations Reserve, Ontario, Canada · Died: September 1, 2025 · Notable Award: Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor (Dances with Wolves, 1990) · Age at Death: 73 · Film Appearances: Over 100 · Known For: Kicking Bird in Dances with Wolves, additional iconic roles

Eight key facts about Greene’s life and career, one pattern: a modest, private man who rose to the top of his craft without Hollywood flash.

What did Kevin Costner say about Graham Greene dying?

Kevin Costner’s public tribute

• Costner called Greene “a master at work and a wonderful human being.” (People (celebrity and entertainment news))
• Costner highlighted Greene’s willingness to learn the Lakota language for the role. (Deadline (Hollywood trade publication))
• “Rest in peace, Graham,” Costner said in his statement. (Deadline (Hollywood trade publication))

Costner’s tribute was a blend of personal warmth and professional respect. Greene had reportedly tried to thank Costner shortly before his death, a gesture Costner acknowledged in his statement. The implication: Costner saw Greene not just as a co-star but as a friend who remained humble to the end.

What is the cause of Graham Greene’s death?

Official cause of death

• Cause of death reported as natural causes. (NPR (U.S. public radio network))
• Died in Stratford, Ontario. (NPR (U.S. public radio network))
• His manager confirmed the death to CBC News. (CBC News (Canadian public broadcaster))
• People reported that Greene died after a lengthy illness. (People (celebrity and entertainment news))
• USA Today also noted a prolonged illness. (USA Today (national daily newspaper))

The cause was natural, but the exact illness remains private. The trade-off: transparency about the cause vs. respect for the family’s privacy. Most outlets stuck to the official line, avoiding speculation.

Was Graham Greene a drinker?

Graham Greene’s history with alcohol

• Greene openly discussed his past struggles with alcohol. (CBC News (Canadian public broadcaster))
• He was a recovering alcoholic for many years.
• His drinking affected his early career, but he later achieved sobriety.

Greene never shied away from his past. In interviews, he described how alcohol nearly derailed his career before he found his footing. The catch: his openness about addiction became a quiet strength, making him a role model for First Nations youth facing similar struggles.

What was Graham Greene’s net worth when he died?

Estimated net worth at death

• Net worth estimated around $5 million. (Marca (Spanish sports newspaper))
• Income from acting, voice work, and music.
• Modest lifestyle compared to Hollywood peers.

For a career spanning over 100 films and TV shows, $5 million is modest by Hollywood standards. Greene never chased blockbuster paychecks; he chose roles that mattered. The pattern: a quiet, principled life that prioritized craft over cash.

Were Kevin Costner and Graham Greene friends?

On-set relationship during Dances with Wolves

• They developed a close bond working on Dances with Wolves. (People (celebrity and entertainment news))
• Greene often credited Costner for career opportunities. (Deadline (Hollywood trade publication))
• Costner considered Greene a friend and respected colleague. (People (celebrity and entertainment news))

Their friendship was