Lily Gladstone, the actress who rose to prominence after starring in Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon, has received widespread acclaim for her performance in the film.
Her acting has garnered her the honor of being the first Native American woman to be nominated for an Oscar for Best Actress, marking a significant achievement in her career.
Who are Lily Gladstone’s parents?
Lily Gladstone, who uses she/they pronouns, was born to Howard Gladstone and Betty Peace-Gladstone. Her father, Howard, is of Piegan Blackfeet (Siksikaitsitapi) and Nez Perce (Nimíipuu) heritage, while her mother, Betty, is of European descent.
Howard, who cherishes deep spirituality and sharp intelligence, has been described by Lily as “one of the most brilliant men I know — a gentle giant,” as per The Guardian.
He encountered challenges as an outspoken Native American during his time at the University of Washington in the 1970s and later pursued a career in broadcast journalism and as a boilermaker in a shipyard.
Meanwhile, Betty, an early childhood education specialist, is referred to as the “bedrock of our family” by Lily.
Lily credited their parents for fostering their interest in acting from a young age, indicating that her father always believed it would be her calling.
Who is Lily Gladstone?
Lily Gladstone, born on August 2, 1986, in Kalispell, Montana, is an American actress known for her energetic and performative nature from a young age.
During high school in Washington, she was voted as “Most Likely to Win an Oscar” by her classmates, a fun prediction that took a significant turn as she pursued a career in acting.
After obtaining a degree in acting and directing and a minor in Native American studies from the University of Montana, Lily made her acting debut in 2012 in the film Jimmy P: Psychotherapy of a Plains Indian.
She has since performed on stage and appeared in television shows such as HBO’s Room 104, Showtime’s Billions, and FX’s Reservation Dogs.
Lily’s exceptional performance in Killers of the Flower Moon, alongside Leonardo DiCaprio, has earned her widespread recognition and a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama.
Her stellar portrayal has also led to nominations for a Screen Actors Guild Award, a Critics’ Choice Movie Award, and an Independent Spirit Award.
Where did Lily Gladstone grow up?
Lily has spent her childhood split between Montana’s Blackfeet Reservation and Seattle, where her family subsequently moved due to a lack of economic opportunities.
Reflecting on her upbringing, Lily spoke about the love of family and community that was the foundation of her life, despite the challenges present in her community.
Despite facing hardships, Lily holds a deep love for the community and family, acknowledging the poverty, violence, substance abuse, and unemployment that are prevalent but are balanced by an underlying love that binds the people in her community together.
