Canadian Indigenous actor and artist Taran Kootenhayoo have passed away at the age of 27. Notably, Kootenhayoo died on New Year’s Eve and no reason for the death has been revealed by his parents, family, or friends yet.
Indigenous Streetwear company section 35 was the first to announce Taran’s death on their Instagram account. Notably, the actor modeled their latest fashions module. Section 35 wrote: “A Tribute to Our Dear Friend, Standing Sunrise // Taran – He brought beauty and light to this world and everyone he touched. He had a heart of gold and carried himself with kindness in a way we should all strive for. He was a day one family member for us and graced our shoots with his beauty and style year after year all the while he was a talented artist, skater, and star in his own right. Creator called a legend home. We love you and you will be missed. Rest in Power Brother.”
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Taran Kootenhayoo: A Promising Talent
Vancouver-based Kootenhayoo gained fame for his star-turn as Niki, a young homeless man looking for his missing sister, in Bella Ciao!, the 2018 indie feature by director Carolyn Combs.
“Our loss is immeasurable. He was a gifted and disciplined collaborator, a warm and generous friend. Words don’t capture our deep respect and affection for him. We wish him well on his journey. In his honor, and with the approval of his sister Cheyanna J.V. Kootenhayoo, we are making his performance in the film available to all,” the official website for Bella Ciao! wrote about the actor’s death as it introduced the online movie screening.
In honour of Taran J. Kootenhayoo, and with great respect for the family, and with the approval of Taran’s sister Cheyanna J. V. Kootenhayoo, we would like to present the opportunity to view this film that he acted in.
Please use this link. https://t.co/CIqzCUdTri
— Bella Ciao Movie (@BellaCiaoMovie) January 2, 2021
He graduated from Capilano University’s Acting for Stage and Screen program in 2015 and was listed as ‘stars to watch at the Whistler Film festival’ by Hollywood North Magzine in 2018.
Taran also earned the Most Promising Newcomer trophy at the Jessie Theatre Awards in 2019.
