Gil Birmingham and Taylor Sheridan A Collaborative Effort in Telling Native American Stories

Gil Birmingham, a Comanche actor known for his role as Thomas Rainwater in the hit series Yellowstone, emphasizes the importance of building alliances between Native Americans and non-Natives, both in storytelling and in real life. As the series approaches its conclusion, Birmingham reflects on his experiences working with Taylor Sheridan, the show's creator, whom he regards as a supportive ally in the representation of Indigenous narratives.

• Praise for Taylor Sheridan:

  • Birmingham acknowledges that while Sheridan has faced criticism from some within the Native community for his portrayal of Indigenous stories, he believes that Sheridan's intentions are often misunderstood.
  • He states, “Taylor does whatever he can do and utilizes whatever resources he has access to to make things as genuine and authentic as they can be.” This includes collaborating with cultural advisors like Mo Brings Plenty, a Lakota elder who brings valuable insights into the portrayal of Native culture.

• Understanding Concerns:

  • Birmingham recognizes the valid concerns expressed by Native individuals regarding the representation of their stories, particularly when they are not written by Native creators. He notes the economic challenges that Native artists face in Hollywood, which often necessitate collaboration with non-Native allies to bring their stories to life.
  • He emphasizes the need for more Native writers, directors, and actors to authentically tell their own stories.

• Character Dynamics in Yellowstone:

  • Throughout the series, Birmingham's character, Rainwater, has navigated a complex relationship with John Dutton, played by Kevin Costner. This dynamic showcases Native characters as equals rather than peripheral figures, a significant shift from traditional portrayals in Hollywood.
  • Birmingham highlights that Rainwater and Mo are depicted as active participants in the narrative, addressing contemporary Native issues and challenges.

• Cultural Representation:

  • Birmingham points out the historical misrepresentation of Native characters in film and television, often reduced to stereotypes. He believes that Sheridan's work represents a crucial step towards portraying Native people as fully realized human beings.
  • He states, “That’s ultimately the challenge is to have people see the Native people as human beings and not the way they’ve been portrayed for the last couple hundred years.”

As Yellowstone concludes its fifth season, Birmingham expresses gratitude for the relationships formed during the production and the opportunity to share Native stories in a respectful manner, aiming to foster curiosity and understanding among audiences.