Harold J. Smith
- Born:
- May 26, 1912, near Brantford, Ontario, Canada
- Died:
- November 15, 1980, Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Nationality:
- Canadian, later American
- Profession(s):
- Actor, Athlete
Early Life and Education
- Born Harold J. Smith, of Mohawk descent.
- Excelled in lacrosse and boxing in his youth.
- Known for his athleticism and horsemanship.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his acting career in the 1930s, often uncredited.
- Gained significant recognition playing "Tonto" in the television series The Lone Ranger (1949-1957).
- Successfully portrayed Native American characters in numerous films and television shows.
- Advocated for improved representation of Native Americans in media.
Notable Works
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1948 | Key Largo | John Osceola |
| 1949-1957 | The Lone Ranger (TV Series) | Tonto |
| 1952 | The Battle at Apache Pass | Goyable |
| 1966 | Billy the Kid Versus Dracula | Chief Running Bear |
Legacy and Impact
Harold J. Smith, widely known by his stage name as Steve Silverheels, achieved lasting fame as Tonto in The Lone Ranger. Despite stereotypical casting challenges, his portrayal remains iconic, and his advocacy contributed to increased awareness of Native American issues within the entertainment industry. This Steve Silverheels biography highlights his accomplishments.