Kevin Costner paid tribute to his late Dances With Wolves co-star Graham Greene just one day after his death.
“A few things come to mind when I think of Graham Greene and our time together on Dances With Wolves,” Costner, 73, began in an Instagram post shared on Tuesday, September 2.
Costner went on to explain that Greene was “willing” to learn “the Lakota language,” which his character, Kicking Bird (Ziŋtká Nagwáka), spoke in the film.
“I think of my joy when I heard that his work on the film was recognized with an @theacademy Awards nomination,” the Yellowstone star wrote, referring to Greene’s Oscar nomination in his directorial debut. “And I think of this scene in particular, when he was able to establish so much about the relationship between Dunbar and the natives with so few words.”
Costner went on to remember Greene as someone who “was a master at work and a wonderful human being.” He concluded, “I’m grateful to have been witness to this part of his lasting legacy. Rest in peace, Graham.”
Alongside the caption, Costner shared a clip from the film that showed his character, Lieutenant Dunbar, attempting to have a conversation with Greene and his tribe.
View this post on Instagram
Shortly after Costner shared the tribute, several fans took to the comments section to express their condolences. “So talented and he loved what he was doing, it showed in his work. May he rest in peace,” one person commented, while another added, “My favorite all time movie! I cannot tell you how many times I have watched it. I loved all the actors involved they gave this story meaning. Graham Greene was amazing in it.”
Greene died at the age of 73 on Monday, September 1, after he battled “a lengthy illness,” his agent confirmed that same day.
Parade Daily🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬
In addition to his memorable role in Dances with Wolves, Greene acted in 1994’s Maverick, 1995’s Die Hard With a Vengeance, 2009’s The Twilight Saga: New Moon and 2012’s The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2.