Yellowstone

I have been a fan of Yellowstone (the show) for many years now and recently I have come across articles that have sparked an intresting discussion/question. One of the actresses who is named, Kelsey Asbille, is a Chinese women, playing as an Indingenous women on the show, Yellowstone. My question is, is it ethical or right to have a non Indigenous person playing an Indigenous role? I guess my stance on it is that they are playing a role, it is their job, however i understand why many believe that it is wrong and as I learn more about Indigenous People, I think it makes me uncomfortable. The producers of Yellowstone could have (should have) found an Indigneous person to play the role as Monica. It would have been more authentic towards Indigneous perspectives. Unfortunately I have seen this happen many times in other movies and or shows, often the actors/actresses playing an Indigenous role are not Indigneous themselves. There is no excuse for not hiring Indigenous People for these roles.

Also, Yellowstone showcases many biases and sterotypes about Indigenous People. I have watched the show numerous times and it wasnt until recently that I have noticed these. In the beginning season in particular - they show the Indigenous characters often wearing headdresses, and also illustrating the fact that majority of Indigenous People are drunks and or have drugs problems - while neglecting their children. Being more aware of how Indigneos People are treated and lableled has been very eye openeing on many popular illustrations/deomstrations of them in movies and or shows, and It dissapoints me. I hope as we move forwards, this gets better.

On a postive note, I have enjoyed how Yellowstone's characters/storylines celebrates and cherishes the land - much like Indigenous People. Indigenous People have many beautiful traditions ans values that should be adopted in our society.

Thank you for sharing on Yellowstone! I have been thinking about this show a lot actually and its casting of non-Indigenous actors for Indigenous roles. Representation matters not only for authenticity but also for creating opportunities for Indigenous actors, who are often underrepresented in Hollywood. Casting Indigenous actors can bring lived experiences and read culture into a show. Also, stereotypes like the ones you mentioned of addiction and neglect, support harmful biases in the show. This makes it seem like all Indigenous people wherever you go all struggle with the same things. While Yellowstone does celebrate a connection to the land, which aligns with many Indigenous values, it’s disappointing when shows fail to offer a fuller, more accurate picture of Indigenous lives and cultures. The show could celebrate Indigenous culture but instead there is a bit of a negative tone to the Indigenous parts of the show. In the future I hope that Yellowstone would prioritizecasting Indigenous actors, and collaborate with Indigenous creators. The show has a great opportunity to challenge stereotypes rather than reinforce them, and I hope they make some positive changes to respect and honor Indigenous people in Montana.