Saginaw Grant waving to camera

Legendary Native American Actor, Saginaw Grant, Dead at 85

Home / News / Legendary Native American Actor, Saginaw Grant, Dead at 85

By Gary Trock on August 1, 2021 at 1:12 PM EDT

Saginaw Grant, famous for iconic roles in "Breaking Bad" and "The Lone Ranger," died peacefully in his sleep this week at the age of 85.

Grant, who was the hereditary chief of the Sac & Fox Nation of Oklahoma, died peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday at a private care facility in Hollywood, according to the AP.

Although born in Oklahoma, Grant developed a love for Los Angeles after becoming well-known for his roles in Hollywood films and eventually moved out West. However, his publicist told the AP:

"He made his home here as an actor, but he never forgot his roots in Oklahoma. He remained a fan of the Sooner Nation."

Grant also appeared in other well-known movies and TV shows, including “Baywatch,” “My Name Is Earl,” “American Horror Story,” “Shameless,” and “Community.”

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He Has Been 'Called Home'

The news of Grant's passing was also announced on his official Instagram account with a heartfelt eulogy:

It’s with heavy hearts we announce a warrior has been called home," the emotional tribute began.

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"Saginaw Morgan Grant, the hereditary chief and medicine man of the Sac & Fox tribe, traveled the world speaking of his traditions, his experiences, his sobriety and his faith as both a Native American and a Christian. Saginaw loved this country and fought in Korea as a Marine long before Native Americans were recognized as citizens. He bore the mark of this service as a proud reminder and had a deep love for bulldogs (the mascot for the US Marines). Saginaw was always happiest at pow wow sharing the love, energy and tradition of his people. Watching the children grow in the traditions of their ancestors and to share in the spirits of dance to the beat of the drum brought him both joy and peace. He enjoyed competing in dance and did so up until Covid temporarily halted gatherings. He came to acting later in life and felt enormous pride in sharing culture through movies and public speaking. He was a jewelry maker and artist. He joins his nephew and sister Stella who passed earlier this year from Covid and his sons who preceded him in the last few years. He is survived by his daughter Lisa Grant, daughter-In-law Dodie L Kent, grandchildren Cassandra and Vanessa Kent, his brothers Austin JR and Francis SR, adopted daughter Lani Melisa Carmichael, his adopted son Rick Mora, a soon to be grandson Chayton Mora, adopted daughter Heather Everette, and his nieces, nephews and cousins in Oklahoma."

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According to the AP, a memorial for Saginaw Grant will be held in Los Angeles, but details have not yet been revealed. There will also no doubt be a memorial with Saginaw's tribe in Oklahoma.

R.I.P.

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