Irene Bedard is of Inupiat and Metis heritage and is enrolled in the Native Village of Koyuk. She is renowned for her portrayal of Native American characters and her dynamic emotional depth in a diverse array of film roles. Irene's educational journey in the arts led her to The University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA, where she honed her skills in Musical Theatre. Her most iconic role is the voice of Pocahontas in the Disney animated feature, for which she also served as the physical model. This role, coupled with her selection as one of People magazine's 50 Most Beautiful People in 1995, underscores her significant impact on and off the screen.
Irene's acting career commenced with her role in "Lakota Woman: Siege at Wounded Knee," laying the groundwork for a series of influential parts in films such as "Smoke Signals," directed by Chris Eyre, and the Steven Spielberg executive-produced TV series "Into the West." These roles have solidified her status as a pivotal figure in portraying Indigenous narratives with authenticity and depth.
Beyond her illustrious career in the entertainment industry, Irene is the president of Sleeping Lady Films, based in Anchorage and Santa Fe, New Mexico, and co-founder of Waking Giants Productions with Thomas Denomme. Waking Giants Productions is committed to developing television and new media projects that bring positive and inspirational stories from Indian Country to a global audience.
As a fervent advocate for Indigenous rights, Irene has extended her influence to the international stage as a delegate of the American Indian Enterprise and Business Council to the United Nations. Her advocacy work spans critical issues, including the crisis of Murdered and Missing Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) and the protection of sacred lands.
As a founding board member of the Urban Native Collective (UNC), Irene Bedard has been paramount in the formation of the organization's vision and work. Her dedication to leveraging her platform for the upliftment of Native communities has been crucial in advancing UNC's initiatives. Irene's leadership within the Collective and her broader advocacy efforts exemplify her commitment to promoting Indigenous voices, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation.
Irene Bedard's contributions to both the arts and the advocacy for Indigenous peoples' rights showcase her as a beacon of resilience, empowerment, and hope. Her work continues to inspire and drive meaningful change within Indigenous communities and beyond.