Tatanka Means, a multitalented actor and comedian with diverse Native American heritage, has made a significant impact in the world of entertainment with his noteworthy career. Born on February 19, 1985, Tatanka Means hails from a rich cultural background, encompassing Oglala Lakota, Omaha, Yankton Dakota, and Diné descent.
Tatanka’s journey in the entertainment industry has been a remarkable one. He burst onto the screen in 2004, initially taking on a pivotal role as the lead stunt double in the film “Black Cloud.” Interestingly, the film was shot in the very gym where he had previously honed his boxing skills. This marked the beginning of a flourishing career.
His acting portfolio boasts a diverse range of roles in numerous films and television series. In the captivating miniseries “Into the West” (2005), Tatanka Means portrayed the legendary Crazy Horse, leaving a memorable impression. He further demonstrated his acting prowess in “More Than Frybread” (2012), where he brought Buddy Begay, a “hip-hop Navajo fry-bread rock star,” to life. Critics noted his compelling performance, hailing him as “quietly affecting” and an authentic representation of New Mexico.
One of Tatanka Means’ most celebrated roles was in “Tiger Eyes” (2012), an adaptation of Judy Blume’s novel. He portrayed Wolf Ortiz, a Native American boy who introduced the main character to his ancestral lands and culture. Critics praised his casting as a departure from stereotypes, describing him as “an utterly authentic representation of a New Mexican.”
Tatanka Means continued to excel in roles such as Hobbamock in “Saints & Strangers” (2015), Delvin in “Neither Wolf Nor Dog” (2016), and Charges the Enemy in “The Son.” His impressive acting career also includes appearances in “The Burrowers” (2008), “Sedona” (2011), “The Host” (2013), “A Million Ways to Die in the West” (2014), “The Night Shift” (2014-2015), and “Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials” (2015).
In 2019, Tatanka Means added to his list of credits by appearing in “Once Upon a River” as Bernard Crane, “Montford: The Chickasaw Rancher” as Rising Wolf, and “The Dust Monologues” as The Jackrabbit. His most recent work includes a role in the film adaptation of Alex Kershaw’s book “The Liberator,” where he portrays Private Thomas Otaktay, a Lakota soldier during World War II.
One notable aspect of Tatanka Means’ career is his dedication to portraying Native men as modern and complex individuals rather than resorting to stereotypes that have often plagued Hollywood portrayals.
In the realm of comedy, Tatanka Means is a vital part of the group 49 Laughs Comedy, which includes fellow members Pax Harvey, James Junes, Ernie Tsosie ii, and Adrianne Chalepah. His comedic performances draw deeply from his Native heritage, often sharing humorous insights on Native culture.
Beyond his accomplishments in the entertainment industry, Tatanka Means is recognized as an entrepreneur. In 2011, he received the American Indian Business Leaders (AIBL) Entrepreneur of the Year award. He created a unique clothing line known as “Tatanka Clothing” with the goal of raising cultural awareness for Native people and business endeavors. His commitment to advocacy and business extends beyond this, as he once appeared in a Native American Men’s Calendar in 2006.
Tatanka Means is part of a larger family, being one of ten children born to his parents, including the notable activist Russell Means. His father played a pivotal role in the American Indian Movement and continued to make strides in the world of acting. Russell Means’ influence can be seen in Tatanka’s career, as he portrayed the terminally ill screen father of Tatanka’s character in the film “Tiger Eyes.” Tragically, Russell Means passed away shortly after filming concluded, and Tatanka Means carried his father’s urn during the funeral.
Tatanka Means’ full Lakota name, “Tatanka Wanbli Sapa Xila Sabe,” translates to “Black Buffalo Eagle.” While he originally hails from Chinle, Arizona, located on the Navajo Nation, Tatanka now resides with his own family in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. His wife, Christine Means, is a yoga instructor, and together, they have a daughter. Tatanka Means is an advocate for sobriety and a staunch proponent of leading a life free from alcohol and drugs.
His extensive filmography showcases his acting prowess, with a wide array of roles that reflect his dedication to authentic and diverse representations of Native American culture. Tatanka Means is not just an actor but also an influential figure who uses his platform to create awareness and promote positive change.