Lily Gladstone | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : December 23, 2024

Who is Lily Gladstone?

Lily Gladstone is a talented American actor celebrated for her exceptional work in both film and television. Born on August 2, 1986, in Kalispell, Montana, she is of Blackfeet and Nimíipuu heritage. Gladstone spent her early years on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Browning, Montana, a formative experience that deeply influences her artistry and connection to Indigenous communities. After graduating from the University of Montana with a degree in fine arts, she quickly carved a niche for herself in the world of independent cinema, earning critical acclaim for her performances in projects like "Certain Women" (2016) and the recent "Killers of the Flower Moon" (2023).

With her groundbreaking performance as Mollie Kyle Burkhart in "Killers of the Flower Moon," directed by Martin Scorsese, Gladstone achieved mainstream recognition. This role not only marked a turning point in her career but also led to her becoming the first Native American nominee for Actress in a Leading Role at the Academy Awards. As of 2024, she has further made history with her Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series for her role in Hulu's "Under the Bridge," marking her as one of the first Indigenous women recognized in this category. Gladstone’s performances reflect her commitment to telling authentic Indigenous stories, showcasing her range as an actress while breaking barriers in Hollywood.

Early Life and Education

Lily Gladstone was born on August 2, 1986, in Kalispell, Montana, and grew up in Browning, a town situated in the heart of the Blackfeet Nation. Her father, of Blackfeet and Nimíipuu descent, worked in broadcast journalism, while her mother, who is white, specialized in early childhood education. Until the age of eleven, Gladstone lived on the Blackfeet reservation, an experience that deeply shaped her identity and connection to her Indigenous heritage. She describes her upbringing in Browning, recognizing the community’s struggles with poverty and unemployment but also celebrating the strong bonds of family and love present in her surroundings.

After moving due to a lack of economic opportunities, Gladstone graduated high school in a Seattle suburb. She pursued her passion for acting by attending the University of Montana, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts with a minor in Native American Studies in 2008. Throughout her college years, she participated in various productions with the Montana Repertory Theatre, where she was commended for her exceptional talent. Gladstone embraced the advice from a mentor to stay genuinely invested in the human experience, which she believes has been fundamental to her success as a performer.

Theatre Work and Movies: Early Career Start

Lily Gladstone began her acting journey in 2009 with Living Voices, an educational touring theater company that focuses on telling the stories of marginalized communities. This experience allowed her to engage deeply with the histories of Native American peoples, enriching her cultural perspective and theatrical expression. Gladstone made her film debut in 2012 with "Jimmy P: Psychotherapy of a Plains Indian," portraying a Blackfeet World War II veteran, which marked the commencement of her career in cinema.

In the following years, Gladstone's talent was showcased in various independent films, most notably "Winter in the Blood" (2013) and "Buster’s Mal Heart" (2016). Her portrayal of a rancher in "Certain Women" (2016) earned her significant acclaim and is often referred to as a pivotal moment in her career. Critics praised her performance as one of piercing honesty, helping to elevate her visibility within the industry. With this groundwork laid, Gladstone garnered increasingly complex and substantive roles, paving the way for her breakout performances in larger productions.

Historic Oscar Nomination for Killers of the Flower Moon

Lily Gladstone is an accomplished American actor celebrated for her significant contributions to film and television, particularly through her performances rooted in Indigenous narratives. Born on August 2, 1986, in Kalispell, Montana, she brings her heritage as a member of the Blackfeet and Nimíipuu tribes to her roles, notably capturing widespread attention for her portrayal of Mollie Kyle Burkhart in Martin Scorsese's acclaimed film "Killers of the Flower Moon." This film, released in October 2023, is based on real events concerning a series of murders in the Osage Nation during the 1920s. Gladstone’s dedication to accurately representing her character was marked by extensive research, including meetings with Osage leaders to ensure respectful storytelling.

In a historic moment for cinema, Gladstone made Oscar history by becoming the first Native American nominee for Best Actress in a Leading Role, marking a significant milestone not only for her career but also for Indigenous representation in Hollywood. Although she lost to Emma Stone, this nomination highlighted her exceptional talent and the importance of Indigenous narratives in mainstream media. The film's reception, along with her performance, has been described as a turning point, propelling her into the spotlight and leading to accolades such as Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Awards. Gladstone exemplifies how powerful storytelling can resonate across cultures, using her platform to celebrate and uplift Indigenous voices in the arts.

Under the Bridge and Newer Movies

Lily Gladstone's journey continues to shine with notable projects that reflect her talent and commitment to meaningful storytelling. Following the success of the critically acclaimed "Killers of the Flower Moon," she transitioned to television with "Under the Bridge," a riveting Hulu limited series that premiered in April 2024. In this true crime drama, she portrays Cam Bentland, a groundbreaking role that highlights her as one of the few women of color on the Victoria, British Columbia police force. The narrative centers on the tragic murder of Reena Virk, a 14-year-old Canadian girl, and Gladstone's performance has garnered significant attention, ultimately earning her a historic Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series.

In addition to "Under the Bridge," Gladstone showcased her versatility in the drama "Fancy Dance," which debuted on Apple TV+ in June 2024. This film, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2023, follows her character, Jax, as she grapples with the disappearance of her sister while taking care of her niece. Gladstone's remarkable ability to convey complex emotions continues to resonate with audiences. Furthermore, she is set to star in the sequel to the 2022 film "The Unknown Country," where she reprises her role as Tana, exploring themes of grief and personal loss. With upcoming projects including "The Memory Police" and a remake of "The Wedding Banquet," Lily Gladstone remains a vital force in contemporary cinema.

Personal Life: Dating and Relationships

Lily Gladstone, the talented actress known for her impactful performances, maintains a relatively private personal life. She often shares glimpses of her life through social media, where she showcases her love for her dog, Birdy, and her appreciation for Native designers and artists. While specific details about her dating life are not widely disclosed, Gladstone identifies with she/they pronouns, reflecting a belief in gender fluidity shaped by her Indigenous heritage. This perspective emphasizes her understanding of identity and connection, possibly extending into her romantic relationships, although she prefers to keep them understated.

In a world where many celebrities often face intense scrutiny over their love lives, Gladstone's approach is notably refreshing. She has not been publicly linked to any significant relationships as of late, focusing instead on her career and activism. By choosing to concentrate on her craft and the importance of representation in media, she positions herself as a role model, particularly for Indigenous youth. Lily's experiences and insights are grounded in her cultural background, illustrating that her relationships—whether with friends, family, or collaborators—are meaningful and representative of her values and identity.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary and Earnings

Lily Gladstone, an acclaimed actress with Indigenous roots, has firmly established herself in the film industry through her notable performances and breakthrough roles. As of 2024, her net worth is estimated to be in the range of $1 million to $3 million, largely due to her rising stardom and successful projects. Gladstone's financial growth can be attributed to her significant roles in high-profile films like "Killers of the Flower Moon," where her performance garnered critical acclaim and brought in substantial box office revenue.

In addition to her film endeavors, Gladstone's Emmy nomination for "Under the Bridge" also opens up further opportunities for her to increase her income. Although specific salary figures are not publicly disclosed, it is not uncommon for actors of her caliber to command salaries in the mid to high six figures per project, particularly for prominent roles in limited series or films. The combination of film roles, television projects, and potential endorsements reflects her expanding career and suggests a bright financial future ahead.