Dawn Little Sky, a Native American actress who broke new ground and a well-known Disney artist, has died at the age of 95. She leaves behind an inspiring legacy in Hollywood and the art world.
Little Sky was the first Native American artist to color Disney cells, and her unique work helped shape some of Disney’s most popular animated projects. As an artist and storyteller, she made groundbreaking progress, raising the profile of Indigenous people in mainstream entertainment.
Dawn Little Sky was a great actress who gave memorable performances in classic movies like “Cimarron,” “Duel at Diablo,” “Gypsy,” “Gunsmoke,” “Rawhide,” and “The Apple Dumpling Gang.” She wowed audiences with her talent and brought attention to Native characters. Her work with her late husband, Eddie Little Sky, who was also a well-known Disney artist and actor, helped to make indigenous artists even more important in Hollywood.
Little Sky was a well-known Native American teacher, art teacher, and director of a cultural center in Eagle Butte, South Dakota, in addition to being an actor and director. Her dedication to preserving and sharing Native American culture has had a lasting impact on her community and the next generation of artists and leaders.
Dawn Little Sky died on October 24, 2025, at Monument Health Hospital in Rapid City, South Dakota. She was with her family. She is survived by three children and 22 grandchildren who will carry on her love of storytelling and cultural heritage.
Dawn Little Sky’s amazing life and work in Disney, Hollywood, and indigenous arts will keep her memory alive for many years to come.
