Will Sampson

Biography

Will Sampson (September 27, 1933 – June 3, 1987) was an American actor and artist best known for his role as Chief Bromden in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975). A member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Sampson became one of the most recognizable Native American actors in Hollywood during the 1970s and 1980s. His dignified screen presence and quiet intensity brought authenticity and depth to his performances.

Early Life

William Sampson Jr. was born in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, and was a full-blood Muscogee (Creek) Nation member. Before entering the film industry, he worked as a rodeo performer and later as a commercial artist. He was also involved in Native American arts and cultural preservation, reflecting his strong connection to his heritage.

Sampson did not begin acting professionally until his early forties, making his later success all the more remarkable.

Breakthrough Role: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)

Sampson’s acting career began with his portrayal of Chief Bromden, a tall and seemingly mute patient in a psychiatric hospital. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches tall, Sampson’s physical presence perfectly suited the character described in Ken Kesey’s novel.

In the film, Chief Bromden initially appears withdrawn and silent, but as the story unfolds, he reveals his intelligence and emotional depth. Sampson’s restrained and powerful performance became one of the film’s most memorable elements.

The film’s massive success brought Sampson international recognition and opened doors to further roles in Hollywood.

Film Career

Following his breakout role, Sampson appeared in several films, often portraying Native American characters with strength and dignity.

Notable Film Appearances:

The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976), alongside Clint Eastwood

Orca (1977)

Poltergeist II: The Other Side (1986), as Taylor, a spiritual guide

Powwow Highway (1989, released posthumously)

In Poltergeist II, Sampson played a Native American shaman who helps a family confront supernatural forces. The role further showcased his calm authority and spiritual gravitas.

Representation and Cultural Impact

At a time when Native American roles in Hollywood were often stereotypical or marginal, Sampson’s presence helped challenge those portrayals. He brought authenticity and humanity to his characters and became a respected figure within Native American communities.

Beyond acting, Sampson remained connected to his artistic roots and Native heritage, contributing to cultural projects and supporting Indigenous representation.

Personal Life and Death

Will Sampson faced health challenges later in life, including complications from scleroderma, a rare autoimmune disease. He underwent a heart-lung transplant in 1987, becoming one of the first Native Americans to receive such a procedure. Unfortunately, he passed away shortly afterward on June 3, 1987, at the age of 53.

He was buried in his hometown of Okmulgee, Oklahoma.