Misty Upham facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Misty Upham
Upham in 2013
Born	Misty Anne Upham (1982-07-06)July 6, 1982 Kalispell, Montana, U.S.
Died	October 5, 2014(2014-10-05) (aged 32) Auburn, Washington, U.S.
Occupation	Actress
Years active	2002–2014

Misty Anne Upham (born July 6, 1982 – died October 5, 2014) was a talented actress. She was a member of the Blackfeet Nation, a Native American tribe. Misty Upham was well-known for her acting skills, especially in the 2008 movie Frozen River. For this role, she was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Female. She also acted in other movies like Jimmy P: Psychotherapy of a Plains Indian and August: Osage County.

Early Life and Background

Misty Anne Upham was born on July 6, 1982, in Kalispell, Montana. She grew up in Auburn, Washington. As a Native American person, she was part of the Blackfeet Nation. Misty faced personal challenges during her life.

Her Acting Career

Misty Upham appeared in many films and TV shows. Some of her early movie roles included Expiration Date, Edge of America, Skins, and Skinwalkers.

In 2010, she was in the HBO TV series Big Love. A few years later, in 2013, she had an important role in the movie Jimmy P: Psychotherapy of a Plains Indian. This film was shown at the famous Festival de Cannes. She also played the character Johnna in August: Osage County. Her last film role was as Liz in Cake.

Her Passing

On October 5, 2014, Misty Upham left her sister's home in Auburn, Washington. Her family became worried when they did not hear from her. They shared their concerns on social media. Police noted that Misty had been reported missing before but was always found safe within a few days.

On October 16, 2014, Misty Upham's body was found by her family and other members of the Muckleshoot Tribe. She was found at the bottom of a cliff in a wooded area. The search party believed her death was an accident, possibly from falling in the dark.

On December 3, 2014, the King County Medical Examiner reported that Misty Upham died from injuries to her head and body. These injuries happened on October 5, 2014, the day she disappeared.

A documentary called 11 Days - The Search for Misty Upham was later announced. This film looks into her disappearance and death. It also highlights the search efforts by her family. The documentary connects to the wider issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW).

Her Legacy

After Misty Upham's death, a special award was created to honor her. In 2021, The Yale Indigenous Performing Arts Program started The Misty Upham Award for Young Native Actors. This award celebrates Misty's wish to help more young Native actors.

Each year, the award is given to a Native actor under 25 years old. The winner receives a cash prize and chances to perform. Misty Upham was an inspiration. Her talent and career helped open doors for many others. This award helps to remember and celebrate her important legacy. Young actors can submit performances of monologues from Native plays to try and win this award.

Filmography

See also

In Spanish: Misty Upham para niños