Jay Silverheels (born Harold Jay Smith; May 26, 1912 – March 5, 1980) was a Canadian Mohawk actor and athlete who became one of the most famous and recognizable Native American performers in history through his iconic role as Tonto in the classic television series The Lone Ranger. A star lacrosse player and boxer in his youth, he entered the film industry as a stuntman before transitioning into acting. After a series of minor roles, he gained notice for his appearance opposite Humphrey Bogart in Key Largo (1948).
In 1949, he was cast alongside Clayton Moore in The Lone Ranger, and their on-screen partnership became legendary. As the Lone Ranger’s intelligent and resourceful companion, Silverheels brought a quiet dignity to the role, making Tonto a co-hero and a beloved television icon for millions. Frustrated with the limited and stereotypical parts available to Indigenous actors, Jay Silverheels later became a passionate advocate for his community, founding the Indian Actors Workshop in the 1960s to help train and promote Native American talent.
