“We’re not a dime a dozen anymore”: Taylor Sheridan Can Get All the Criticism for Hijacking Representation But Yellowstone’s Native-American Actor Has a Different Story
Mo Brings Plenty commends Yellowstone for its contributions to Native culture, despite the criticism faced by Taylor Sheridan.
In Hollywood, the portrayal of Native American stories has long been a subject of scrutiny when depicted through the lens of non-Native creators. Such is the case with filmmaker Taylor Sheridan, known for his work on projects like the Yellowstone prequels 1883 and 1923, as well as the 2017 film Wind River. As a white man, Sheridan has faced criticism for his handling of these narratives, accused of appropriating and misrepresenting Native American experiences.
However, a recent development has added a new dimension to this ongoing discourse. Mo Brings Plenty, an actor who has worked closely with Sheridan on his projects, has stepped forward with a behind-the-scenes perspective that challenges prevailing criticisms. In this narrative, Brings Plenty sheds light on Sheridan’s approach to storytelling, presenting a counterpoint to the existing critiques.
Mo Brings Plenty’s Behind-the-Scenes Yellowstone Stories Counters Taylor Sheridan’s Criticisms
Mo Brings Plenty, a member of the Lakota Nations, was troubled by the cultural misappropriation he witnessed on screen. This frustration persisted until he secured a role in the first season of Yellowstone.
In a candid interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Brings Plenty shared his journey on the show, and what it achieved for his culture. Although nothing is perfect he is working tirelessly to make it better. He said speaking about the industry as a whole,
If you want accuracy, then you have to come to a few of us. We’re not a dime a dozen anymore, It’s a slow process, but I’m trying to change how everything is being done.
In addition to his on-screen performances, he actively contributes to ensuring authentic representation and cultural sensitivity within the production. He also added,
I acted on the first three seasons, but I assisted the individual who was the coordinator at the time [Daryl Begay] if he had any traditional questions regarding the culture. I have more grassroots connections. When he exited to pursue other things, that’s when the consulting [job] was offered to me for season five. He’s from a different tribe, but we want the best and we help each other out. Still today, if something comes up that I don’t know about, I can call on him.
This directly addresses the past criticisms faced by Taylor Sheridan. By integrating Brings Plenty into both the on-screen narrative and the production process, handles and takes action about the concerns of cultural misappropriation head-on.
Taylor Sheridan Faced Criticism for Cultural Appropriation in Yellowstone
Taylor Sheridan, the creator of Yellowstone, has faced criticism for cultural appropriation primarily due to his portrayal of Native American characters and cultures in this show as well as others.
Some critics argue that the representation of Native American tribes in Yellowstone is oversimplified and stereotypical and that the show relies on Native American imagery and tropes without fully exploring the complexities of Indigenous cultures and histories.
Additionally, there have been criticisms about the lack of Native American input in the production of the show. While Sheridan has stated that he consulted with Native American advisors during the development of Yellowstone, some critics argue that this consultation was not sufficient to accurately represent Indigenous perspectives and experiences.
Yellowstone is streaming on Paramount+.
