Lily Gladstone, the rising star currently making waves in Hollywood and earning Oscar buzz for her role in Martin Scorsese’s highly anticipated film, “Killers of the Flower Moon,” isn’t one to mince words. In a recent interview with New York magazine, Gladstone didn’t hold back when discussing her thoughts on the portrayal of the American West in the popular Paramount Network series, “Yellowstone.”
“Lily Gladstone Speaks Out:
‘Yellowstone’s’ Delusional Depiction of the American West”
Gladstone, whose heritage includes both Blackfeet and Nez Perce roots, expressed strong criticism of “Yellowstone,” created by Taylor Sheridan. She used two powerful words to describe the show’s portrayal of the American West: “delusional” and “deplorable.” However, she was quick to clarify that her criticism wasn’t directed at the Native talent involved in the series, revealing that she had auditioned for it herself.
In the interview, Gladstone shed light on the complex issue of authorship when it comes to Native American stories. She emphasized the importance of Native voices in the creation of Native narratives, yet she also highlighted the necessity for those in power, like Sheridan, to be attentive to the accurate representation of Native history in their works.
“Lily Gladstone:
Navigating the Double-Edged Sword of Native Storytelling”
Gladstone eloquently described the dilemma of wanting more Native voices telling Native stories while also needing the support and understanding of non-Native storytellers. She articulated, “You want to have more Natives writing Native stories; you also want the masters to pay attention to what’s going on. American history is not history without Native history.”
Her words serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity and respect in storytelling, especially when it involves the rich and intricate tapestry of Native American history and culture.
Lily Gladstone’s candid critique of “Yellowstone” underscores the ongoing need for accurate and respectful portrayals of Native American experiences in mainstream media. Her advocacy for Native voices in storytelling and her call for responsible representation in historical narratives are essential contributions to the ongoing dialogue about diversity and inclusivity in the entertainment industry. As she continues to garner attention for her talent and insight, Gladstone’s words serve as a wake-up call for the industry to reflect on the impact of its storytelling choices and the responsibility that comes with it.
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