On the day that Academy Award nominations were to be announced, Lily Gladstone positioned herself amidst the Osage Nation in Oklahoma. As an anticipated nominee for her role in Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon,” Gladstone didn’t wish to hear the news in the typical fashion; she yearned for a setting woven into the narrative of her character’s existence, the real Mollie Kyle. “I decided that I wanted to be on the Osage reservation, should this news come in today,” Gladstone shared, struck by the weight of the historic moment as the first Native American actress nominated for an Oscar in the best actress category.
Amidst the torrent of anticipation, the actress found herself in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, ambitiously planning to journey through Fairfax and Gray Horse to pay her respects. The nomination reveal was a familial moment, her parents beaming their reactions through a FaceTime call. They obliged her request not to see the TV but to witness their expressions instead. “I want to see your and dad’s reactions!” She recalls the overpowering cheer from her parents, which masked the announcement and set her dog barking in excitement.
Gladstone’s nomination did not emerge out of the blue; her performance has drawn widespread acclaim since the movie’s release in October, a sentiment reinforced by her recent Golden Globe victory. This Oscar nod represents more than a personal triumph—it underscores a narrative of restoration and recognition for Native American talent. She emphasizes the cultural significance of her nomination, “It happens to be that I’m carrying this honor right now … it’s all so long overdue. It’s a real moment of restoration, placing Indigenous talent in these roles, spotlighting their humanity. … I think it is shattering a lot of stereotypes people have about Indigenous women, particularly Native American women.” Gladstone, a Montana native closely connected to the Blackfeet Reservation, holds this achievement close, at a time when she believes such narratives are often suppressed or dismissed.
“Killers of the Flower Moon” casts a cinematic lens on the love story between Mollie and Ernest Burkhart, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio, entangled in grim circumstances tied to exploitation and the pursuit of Osage oil-rich land. Noteworthy is Robert De Niro’s role as the uncle, also securing him an Oscar nod. However, Gladstone is keen to highlight that the movie is as much about the Osage community’s solidarity as it is about the central relationship. The narrative emboldens the community’s love, resilience, and the enduring power of heritage shared across generations.
Beyond her groundbreaking nomination, Gladstone’s career trajectory is ascending rapidly, with upcoming projects she’s eager to unveil. Her growing influence grants her the platform to spotlight stories from marginalized communities, particularly those from Indian Country. The actress feels immensely blessed, “being a working actor, period. So to even make a living doing what I love feels like an immense win.”
Whether the Oscars see her taking home the honours or not, Lily Gladstone’s role in film and advocacy reaches far beyond individual accolades. Her presence in Hollywood’s limelight, coupled with her dedication to authentic representation, heralds a new era for Indigenous stories and talent, inviting the world to embrace diversity in a sphere that has been too long homogeneous. The significance of her nomination transcends the personal sphere, serving as a beacon for inclusivity and recognition in a landscape yearning for transformation.
