Adam Beach

ADAM BEACH came to the attention of both audiences and critics as Victor Joseph in the award-winning film Smoke Signals, adapted by writer Sherman Alexie from his award-winning semi-autobiographical collection of interconnected short stories titled “The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven.”

Beach has played opposite Nicolas Cage in Windtalkers, the John Woo-directed story of the World War II Navajo code talkers, and received much critical acclaim for his powerful starring turn as Ira Hayes in Flags of Our Fathers, directed by Clint Eastwood, written by Paul Haggis and produced by Steven Spielberg.

He has also received a Golden Globe Award nomination for his portrayal as Charles Eastman in the HBO film adaptation of the world-renowned book “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee.” In addition to film, he's worked extensively in television, appearing on HBO's fourth season of Big Love as the manager of the Indian casino; as a series regular on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, playing the role of Ice-T's partner, Chester Lake; and in the CBS miniseries Comanche Moon, written by Diana Ossana and Larry McMurtry. Beach had a recurring role on ABC's series Combat Hospital.

Beach was born in Manitoba, Canada, and began acting in Winnipeg when he was a teenager. His work is strongly rooted in his Native heritage, bringing a unique and diverse perspective to his craft. He received the Best Actor Award from the American Indian Film Festival for his role as Frank Fencepost in the screen adaptation of W.P. Kinsella's “Dance Me Outside.”

His commitment to his spiritual development through traditional grass dancing enhances his work. Beach spends his spare time playing hockey and generously donating his voice and enthusiasm in support of Native youth. He also sings and plays guitar in his own band, Jesus Murphy.

©2011 Universal Pictures