Who is Wes Studi?

Wes Studi is a Native American actor who has made a name for himself as one of the most prominent commercial actors in recent years. With over four decades of experience in the film industry, Studi has played a variety of roles, ranging from historical figures to powerful villains in blockbuster hits.

Born in Cherokee Nation, Oklahoma in 1947, Studi originally worked as a ranch hand and a professional horse trainer before moving to Los Angeles to pursue his acting career. His first major film role was in the 1989 movie "Powwow Highway," where he played the lead role of a charismatic activist.

Studi's breakthrough performance came in Michael Mann's 1992 epic film "The Last of the Mohicans," where he played the Mohican warrior Magua. The role showcased his acting range, and he quickly became a sought-after character actor in Hollywood.

In recent years, Studi has become well known for his roles in commercials, including his voiceover work for the Ram Truck Super Bowl commercial in 2018, where he spoke in Cherokee and invoked the spirit of his ancestors. Studi's presence in commercials has helped to raise awareness of Native American culture and has inspired other actors to take on similar roles.

Studi's contributions to the entertainment industry have been significant, and he has won several notable awards, including a National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and an Academy Honorary Award. His work has also been recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, cementing his place as one of the most talented and respected actors of our time.