Tantoo Cardinal (born 1950) is a Canadian actress of Indigenous descent (Cree and Métis), considered a pioneering figure for the representation of Native peoples in film and television. Her prolific career, spanning over five decades, includes more than 120 productions. She is internationally known for her roles in acclaimed films such as *Dances with Wolves* (1990), *Legends of the Fall* (1994), *Smoke Signals* (1998), and the more recent *Killers of the Flower Moon* (2023). She has also appeared in numerous television series, including *Stumptown* and *Mohawk Girls*. Through her work, she has consistently challenged stereotypes, paving the way for new generations of Indigenous artists. For her significant contribution to the arts, she was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada and has received prestigious recognitions, including the Governor General's Performing Arts Award and a lifetime achievement award from the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television, solidifying her status as a cultural icon.