Native American culture has been gaining well-deserved attention in Hollywood, with shows like Yellowstone shedding light on Indigenous stories and characters. If you’re looking for TV series that highlight Native American talent, culture, and narratives, this list is for you. From modern dramas to historical series, here are the top 10 TV shows with Native American representation.
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1. Yellowstone
Overview: This drama follows the Dutton family as they protect their Montana ranch from outsiders. It features the Broken Rock Reservation and its people, with Native actors like Gil Birmingham playing key roles.
Why It Stands Out: Highlights land disputes and cultural preservation with stunning performances.
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2. 1883
Overview: A prequel to Yellowstone, this series explores the Dutton family’s journey westward in the 19th century, featuring Native storylines and actors like Martin Sensmeier.
Why It Stands Out: Historical context and authentic Indigenous perspectives.
3. Reservation Dogs
Overview: This comedy-drama follows Native teens in rural Oklahoma, navigating life, grief, and dreams of escaping to California. Created by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi.
Why It Stands Out: Fully Native writers’ room and cast for authentic representation.
4. Dark Winds
Overview: A 1970s crime thriller set on a Navajo reservation. Starring Zahn McClarnon, the show blends mystery and cultural depth.
Why It Stands Out: Incorporates Navajo culture, language, and beliefs with thrilling storytelling.
5. The English
Overview: A revenge story set in the American West, featuring an Englishwoman and a Pawnee ex-cavalry scout, played by Chaske Spencer.
Why It Stands Out: Complex and respectful portrayal of Native characters.
6. Rutherford Falls
Overview: A sitcom about a small town and its ties to a Native American reservation, featuring Jana Schmieding and Michael Greyeyes.
Why It Stands Out: Tackles identity and land rights with humor and heart.
7. Longmire
Overview: A Wyoming sheriff collaborates with the Cheyenne tribe to solve crimes. Lou Diamond Phillips stars as Henry Standing Bear.
Why It Stands Out: Addresses Native issues like justice and sovereignty.
8. Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee
- Seasons: 1 (TV Movie)
- Indigenous Cast & Nations: August Schellenberg (Mohawk), Adam Beach (Ojibwe), Eddie Spears (Lakota).
- Plot: A historical drama depicting the U.S. government’s oppression of Native Americans, focusing on figures like Sitting Bull and Charles Eastman.
- Why It Stands Out: A moving portrayal of real historical events with powerful performances by Indigenous actors.
9. Spirit Rangers (For Families)
- Seasons: 1 (Ongoing)
- Indigenous Cast & Nations: Voices by Wacinyeya Iwasaka Yracheta (Dakota/Ho-Chunk), Isis Celilo Rogers (Wasco/Confederated Tribes).
- Plot: This animated series follows three Native siblings who protect a national park as magical Spirit Rangers.
- Why It Stands Out: A vibrant and heartwarming introduction to Native culture for kids.
10. Westworld
- Seasons: 4 (Completed)
- Indigenous Cast & Nations: Zahn McClarnon (Hunkpapa Lakota) as Akecheta, a Ghost Nation leader.
- Plot: While the series is primarily sci-fi, Akecheta’s storyline in the “Kiksuya” episode provides an emotional and spiritual depth centered on Native traditions.
- Why It Stands Out: A beautifully crafted narrative that showcases Native resilience and spirituality.
