9 Indigenous Comedians Who Will Leave You in Stitches

Indigenous comedians have been using their unique perspective and humor to challenge stereotypes and bring attention to important issues for decades. From the irreverent humor of The 1491s to the sharp wit of Howie Miller, Indigenous comedians have made significant contributions to the world of comedy and beyond.

Through their work, they have helped to promote greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures and to highlight the important issues facing Indigenous communities today. In this article, we will highlight nine Indigenous comedians who are making waves in the industry and using their humor to make a difference.

Tonia Jo Hall aka “Auntie Beachress”

Tonia Jo Hall is a comedian and motivational speaker from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe in North Dakota. She has performed stand-up comedy across the United States and has been featured on several television shows, including “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and “Native Shorts.” Hall’s comedy often deals with issues such as addiction, recovery, and the importance of culture and traditions.

Tatanka Means

Tatanka Means is a Native American actor, comedian, and motivational speaker known for his work in films, television shows, and stand-up comedy. He is the son of actor and comedian Russell Means and is of Oglala Lakota, Omaha, and Navajo descent. Means Films include "Tiger Eyes", "The Host: and "Sicario: Day of the Soldado." His Television work includes "The Son," "Glow," "Saints & Strangers," and "Reservation Dogs."

Adrianne Chalepah

Adrianne Chalepah is a comedian and musician from the Kiowa Tribe in Oklahoma. Chalepah’s comedy often addresses the challenges faced by Indigenous people, while also celebrating the humor and resilience of Indigenous communities.

Joey Clift

Joey Clift is writer, performer and registered member of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe who has written on "Wabbit" and "Lego Ninjago: Decoded" for Cartoon Network and currently writes on the Indigenous animated series, "Spirit Rangers". More importantly, he is the admin of the LA Underground Cat Network, a 6000 member strong Facebook group for Los Angeles comedians to share pictures of their cats.

Nakkiah Lui

Nakkiah Lui is a writer/actor/director and Gamillaroi/Torres Strait Islander woman. Nakkiah was actor/writer/producer of the ground-breaking series, "Black Comedy", which ran for four seasons from 2014-2019. From then she went on to create/write/star in the award-winning series, "Kiki & Kitty". Most recently, Nakkiah is is the co-creator/showrunner/star of the upcoming Australian series, "Preppers".

Dallas Goldtooth

Dallas Goldtooth is a comedian and environmentalist of Mdewakanton Dakota and Dene heritage. He co-founded the Indigenous comedy group The 1491s, and is a Dakota culture and language teacher. He is currently reprising his role as Spirit in season 3 of "Reservation Dogs". Goldtooth is also a poet, traditional artist, and powwow emcee.

Homer Shadowheart

Homer Shadowheart is of Anishinaabe/Susquehanna heritage and a stand up comic with a bachelors degree in music. He has been involved in activism for years, speaking against racist mascots and petitioning for the removal of racist signage in Cincinnati. Homer lives in Cincinnati with his wife and coon hound and is a board member of the Greater Cincinnati Native American Coalition.

Jana Schmieding

Jana Schmieding is a Mniconjou and Sicangu Lakota actor, writer and comedian known for her work on Rutherford Falls. Formerly a public school teacher in New York City, Jana moved to Los Angeles to further pursue a career in television. Jana was born and raised in rural Oregon, studied theater arts at the University of Oregon and got her Masters in Teaching from Mercy College in New York. She cut her teeth in the improv and sketch comedy scene in New York City where she wrote, performed and directed regularly.

Howie Miller

Howie Miller is a Cree comedian from Alberta. He has performed stand-up comedy for over 20 years and has appeared on several television shows, including “Just for Laughs” and “Comedy Now!” Miller’s comedy often draws on his experiences growing up on a reservation and the challenges faced by Indigenous people.

In conclusion, Indigenous comedians have been using their humor to create positive change and to promote greater understanding of Indigenous cultures and issues.

Through their unique perspective and comedic talents, they have challenged stereotypes, highlighted important issues, and brought attention to the contributions of Indigenous people to the world of comedy and beyond.

The nine Indigenous comedians highlighted in this article are just a few of the many talented performers who are making waves in the industry and using their humor to make a difference. Their work serves as a reminder that comedy can be a powerful tool for social change and a means of celebrating diverse voices and perspectives.