How Old Was Nathan Lee Chasing His Horse In Dances With Wolves

Discover the fascinating story behind Nathan Lee Chasing His Horse, the young actor who portrayed the role of Smiles A Lot in the Oscar-winning film Dances With Wolves. Let us dive into the captivating details of his age, experiences, and beyond during his involvement with this cinematic masterpiece.

Who is Nathan Lee Chasing His Horse?

Nathan Lee Chasing His Horse, a Rosebud Sioux Tribe member, is an accomplished Native American actor best known for his role as Smiles A Lot in the iconic 1990 film, Dances With Wolves. Born on April 28, 1976, in South Dakota, United States, Nathan's big break came at the young age of 14 when he was cast in the film by director Kevin Costner.

Dances With Wolves: A Brief Synopsis

Dances With Wolves is an epic western film directed and starring Kevin Costner. The film, adapted from Michael Blake’s 1988 novel of the same name, tells the story of Lieutenant John Dunbar, a Civil War soldier who develops a friendship with a group of Lakota Indians and eventually becomes a member of their tribe. The film earned numerous awards, including seven Academy Awards, and holds a special place in the hearts of many viewers.

Smiles A Lot: Nathan Lee Chasing His Horse's Role

In Dances With Wolves, Nathan portrayed Smiles A Lot, a young and spirited member of the Sioux tribe who befriends Lt. John Dunbar. His character was essential in illustrating the warmth, curiosity, and loyalty of the Sioux people, which played a significant part in Dunbar's decision to adopt their culture.

The Casting Process and Nathan's Age

During the casting process for Dances With Wolves, the production team held open casting calls on various Lakota Sioux reservations. First-time actor Nathan Lee Chasing His Horse was only 14 years old when he attended an open casting call on his reservation in South Dakota.

Chosen by director Kevin Costner from among hundreds of hopefuls, Nathan's youth and authenticity caught the eye of the production team, who believed he could bring the character of Smiles A Lot to life. At 14, Nathan was one of the youngest actors on set and faced unique challenges, such as balancing his schoolwork and shooting schedule.

Life After Dances With Wolves

Following his role in Dances With Wolves, Nathan continued his acting career, appearing in TV shows like "Walker, Texas Ranger" and films like "Smoke Signals" and "Skins." His work has consistently resonated with audiences, particularly those within the Native American community.

In addition to acting, Nathan has become an advocate for indigenous rights, environmental issues, and youth initiatives. He has served as a cultural consultant for various film productions, ensuring authentic representation for Native American stories and characters.

How Old Was Nathan Lee Chasing His Horse In Dances With Wolves Example:

Nathan Lee Chasing His Horse: Challenges and Growth

At 14 years old, Nathan faced the unique challenges of balancing the pressures of being a young actor in a high-profile film while still attending school. He worked closely with his tutors, tutors provided by the production, and his family to ensure that he kept up with his studies. This determination not only helped him excel in his role but also set the stage for his success as an actor, advocate, and role model for young people.

We hope you enjoyed discovering the remarkable journey of Nathan Lee Chasing His Horse from his humble beginnings on a Sioux reservation to his unforgettable role in Dances With Wolves. Now, it's your turn to share the tale, explore other fascinating articles on How to Own a Horse, and celebrate the power of storytelling that connects us all.