Lily Gladstone’s portrayal of Mollie Burkhart in Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” made history, as she became the first Native American to win the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture-Drama and receive a nomination for the Best Actress Academy Award. Although Emma Stone ultimately took home the Oscar for her role in “Poor Things,” Gladstone views the loss as “irrelevant,” emphasizing the significance of the film’s recognition and historical impact.
In a recent conversation with Empire, Gladstone reflected on the film’s reception and expressed gratitude for the support she received, noting that the recognition from her tribe, the Blackfeet Nation, was particularly meaningful. Despite not winning the Oscar, she was deeply honored by the day dedicated to her by her entire tribe, describing it as the “biggest honor anybody could get.”
“Killers of the Flower Moon,” based on David Grann’s book of the same name, delves into the tragic events surrounding the Osage nation in the 1920s, where over 60 members of the oil-rich tribe were murdered under mysterious circumstances. The film received critical acclaim and garnered 10 Oscar nominations, propelling Gladstone and Stone into the forefront of the Best Actress race.
Gladstone’s connection to her tribe was evident as she described the overwhelming support she received from them, with thousands of people attending her dedicated day, making it one of the most moving experiences of her life. The Blackfeet Nation leaders even created cardboard cut-outs resembling Oscars to celebrate her achievement, highlighting the film’s meaningful impact on her community.
Following her success in “Killers of the Flower Moon,” Gladstone has continued to pursue diverse projects. She recently starred in Hulu’s true crime drama series “Under the Bridge” and will next be seen in “Fancy Dance,” set for release on June 21, 2024. Additionally, she teased her involvement in an upcoming “deeply indie” ensemble romantic comedy, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Despite the competitive nature of award campaigns, Gladstone remains focused on the meaningful impact of “Killers of the Flower Moon” and the recognition it brought to her community. As she continues to explore new roles and projects, her dedication to storytelling and representation shines through, solidifying her status as a rising talent in the industry.