Ted Thin Elk facts for kids

Marvin (Ted) Thin Elk, Sr. (August 14, 1919 – January 27, 1997) was a respected elder and actor from the Lakota Sioux nation. He was part of the Sicangu Lakota, a group of the Lakota people. Ted lived most of his life on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota. He was a very important member of his community.

Ted was involved in groups like the Lakota Treaty Council and the Grey Eagle Society. Because of his dedication, he was given the special title of chief. When he was 72 years old, Ted started a new career as an actor. His first role was Grandpa Sam Reaches in the movie Thunderheart. For his great work, he received the First Americans in the Arts Award in 1992. This was the very first year this award was given out! Ted continued acting in two more movies and a TV mini-series before he passed away in 1997.

His Life and Community Role

Ted Thin Elk lived for 77 years. He had a family and was a dedicated community member. In 1946, he married Arvella Pawnee. They were together for 21 years and had nine children. After Arvella passed away in 1967, Ted married Mary Sitting Hawk in 1969. They were married for 16 years until Mary died in 1985. His last marriage was to Anna V. Carroll in 1993, but it ended a year later.

When Ted was in his early twenties, he served in the United States military. He was a soldier in the United States Army during World War II. He was stationed in Africa and took part in the Northern African Campaign. Ted was injured slightly during his service. After his injury, he returned home to the United States.

Becoming an Actor

Ted Thin Elk began his acting career later in life, at age 72. His first role was in the film Thunderheart. He played the character of Grandpa Sam Reaches. This role brought him recognition and an award.

Films and TV Shows

Ted Thin Elk appeared in several films and a television mini-series. Here is a list of his acting roles: