Johnny Depp adopted as Comanche in Albuquerque

Johnny Depp, currently playing the role of Tonto in the new film version of The Lone Ranger being shot in New Mexico, was adopted into the Comanche nation at a private ceremony in the Albuquerque home of LaDonna Harris (Comanche), president and founder of Americans for Indian Opportunity.

The Kentucky-born Depp has said in interviews that one of his great grandmothers was part Creek or Cherokee, and he is playing Tonto as a Comanche.

Some Native American bloggers have suggested in online comments that the interpretation wont be historically or culturally accurate.In the 1950s Lone Ranger television series, Tonto was portrayed by Canadian Mohawk First Nations actor Jay Silverheels.

Johnny is reprising the historic role of Tonto, and it seemed like a natural fit to officially welcome him into our Comanche family, Harris said in a news release about the May 16 ceremony. I reached out, and Johnny was very receptive to the idea.

The Comanche Nation Chairman, Johnny Wauqua, was among those who attended the ceremony, the statement said.

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