Gil Birmingham is best known for playing Billy Black in the Twilight saga, Thomas Rainwater in Yellowstone, and Chief Ben Walking Bear in Banshee.
Films
- The Last ManhuntChief Little Jim2022
- The LiberatorSergeant2020
- The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2Billy Black2012
- The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1Billy Black2011
- The Twilight Saga: EclipseBilly Black2010
- The Twilight Saga: New MoonBilly Black2009
- TwilightBilly Black2008
- Hell or High WaterAlberto Parker2016
- RangoWounded Bird (voice)2011
- The Lone RangerRed Knee2013
TV shows
- YellowstoneThomas Rainwater2018–2024
- BansheeChief Ben Walking Bear2013–2016
- House of CardsDaniel Taggart2017
- The BridgeSteven Linder2013–2014
- Star Trek: Deep Space NineChief O’Brien’s doppelganger (uncredited)1995
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About Gil Birmingham
Gil Birmingham is an American actor of Comanche descent, known for his commanding presence in both film and television. He has built a career spanning over two decades, often portraying strong, authoritative Native American characters. His notable roles include the patriarch Billy Black in the Twilight film series and the savvy casino owner Thomas Rainwater in the hit series Yellowstone.
FAQs
What is Gil Birmingham’s most famous role?
He is widely recognised for playing Billy Black, the father of Jacob Black, in the Twilight film series.
Is Gil Birmingham a real Native American?
Yes, he is of Comanche descent and has been an advocate for Native American representation in Hollywood.
What TV series is Gil Birmingham currently in?
He stars as Thomas Rainwater in the Paramount Network series Yellowstone, which aired from 2018 to 2024.
Has Gil Birmingham won any awards?
He has been nominated for several awards, including a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture for Hell or High Water.
What was Gil Birmingham’s first acting role?
His earliest known credit is an uncredited appearance in an episode of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine in 1995.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026