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Johnny Depp Wants Tonto to Change Hollywood's Negative Portrayal of Native Americans |
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Wednesday, 12 October 2011 22:03 |
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Johnny Depp has claimed that he is part Native American. He said his great-grandmother who lived in Kentucky was either Cherokee or Creek Indian. His heritage has lead him on a mission to reboot the Tonto character, and upgrade him from sidekick to leading man in his version of The Lone Ranger. Just a few months ago he told Entertainment Weekly, “Why is the f–ing Lone Ranger telling Tonto what to do?”
The Lone Ranger started off as a radio show in 1933, but the version most people are familiar with is the 1950's television show. Tonto was played by Jay Silverheels, a Mohawk, and champion athlete in boxing, lacrosse, and wrestling. He was an actor with great dignity, and found a way to overcome the limitations of the role. Later in his life Jay devoted his life to teaching young Native American actors so that they could continue to progress the Read more: |
