If you’re a fan of Yellowstone and The Twilight Saga, there’s a fascinating link between the two that you may not have known about. Gil Birmingham, known for his role as the fiercely proud and grounded Billy Black in Twilight, also stars in the hit Western drama Yellowstone. From shapeshifting werewolves to complex Indigenous characters, Gil’s acting career has spanned across some of the most iconic film and television franchises of the last two decades. Let’s dive into his unique journey and explore how his roles in Twilight and Yellowstone are connected.
Gil Birmingham: From Billy Black in Twilight to Thomas Rainwater in Yellowstone
Gil Birmingham’s Role in The Twilight Saga
In the Twilight films, Gil Birmingham played Billy Black, the father of Jacob Black, portrayed by Taylor Lautner. The saga, based on Stephenie Meyer’s books, follows the love triangle between Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart), Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson), and Jacob Black, a werewolf from the Quileute tribe.
Billy, confined to a wheelchair due to diabetes, serves as a key character in the series, supporting his son Jacob as he grapples with his werewolf heritage and his love for Bella. Despite his physical limitations, Billy is a strong and wise figure, offering guidance to Jacob as he discovers his abilities and his place in the battle between vampires and werewolves.
While Billy’s role in Twilight was secondary to the main vampire drama, his character provided a crucial grounding in the story, particularly in terms of the Indigenous representation of the Quileute people. As a proud father and a member of the tribe, Gil’s portrayal of Billy highlighted the significance of cultural heritage, responsibility, and family bonds.
Gil Birmingham has openly shared his thoughts on the representation of Native Americans in the Twilight films, admitting that while the films weren’t as focused on Indigenous culture as he might have hoped, he was still proud to be part of the franchise. In an interview from 2021, Gil remarked, “It was primarily centered on the vampires, and I think the [Native American] representation was a little less than I might have hoped for, as there was even more so in the books. But I’m still happy to be a part of it.”
From Twilight to Yellowstone: A New Chapter
Fast forward to 2018, and Gil Birmingham was cast in another iconic role that would solidify his place in the hearts of television audiences: Thomas Rainwater in Yellowstone. This modern Western drama, created by Taylor Sheridan, explores the complex lives of the Dutton family as they fight to protect their ranch, which borders a Native American reservation.
In Yellowstone, Thomas Rainwater is the chairman of the Broken Rock Indian Reservation, a position that grants him both political power and responsibility. Unlike Billy Black, who was confined to a wheelchair due to his health issues, Thomas Rainwater is a sharp, strategic leader with an unwavering commitment to preserving his people’s land and culture. His character is integral to the show, providing a voice for Indigenous rights and a perspective often overlooked in mainstream television.
Gil Birmingham’s portrayal of Thomas Rainwater has earned critical acclaim, with many praising his nuanced performance. In an interview with Decider, Gil expressed his pride in how Yellowstone portrays Indigenous characters, stating, “I am proud that the show took the opportunity to present Indigenous characters in the present day as having agency, intelligence, and resourcefulness.” This was a departure from many past portrayals of Native American characters, which often reduced them to stereotypes.
A Shared Legacy of Powerful Indigenous Representation
One of the standout qualities of both Twilight and Yellowstone is their focus on Indigenous representation. While Twilight incorporated elements of Indigenous culture through the Quileute tribe, Yellowstone goes even further by placing Native American characters like Thomas Rainwater at the forefront of the narrative. Gil Birmingham’s roles in both franchises highlight the evolving depiction of Indigenous people in Hollywood—characters who are not just sidekicks or background figures but central to the storyline, with their own agency, struggles, and victories.
While Twilight may have been criticized for its limited representation, Yellowstone takes a more contemporary approach, showcasing Indigenous characters in positions of power and influence. This shift reflects a broader movement in television and film towards more inclusive and diverse storytelling. Gil’s dual roles in these projects underscore his impact as an actor who is helping to redefine how Native American characters are portrayed in popular media.
Gil Birmingham’s Close Bond With Taylor Lautner
If you’re a Twilight fan, you probably remember the strong father-son relationship between Billy and Jacob. What’s interesting is that, off-screen, Gil Birmingham and Taylor Lautner (who played Jacob Black) share a close bond as well. In 2022, Gil expressed his surprise and amusement when he found out that Taylor was getting married. “He is? And he didn’t tell me?” Gil joked to E! News, adding, “I’m going to roll right into that wedding in my wheelchair.”
In November 2022, Taylor Lautner married model Taylor Dome in a beautiful ceremony at Epoch Estate Wines in California. Their relationship, both on-screen and off-screen, exemplifies the genuine camaraderie that can develop between co-stars. Gil’s lighthearted comments about the wedding show just how comfortable and familiar the two actors have become over the years. Despite their differences in age and background, the bond between Gil and Taylor mirrors that of their characters in Twilight—one of mutual respect, love, and understanding.
Jennifer Landon’s Surprising Connection to Yellowstone
It’s not just Gil Birmingham who has an interesting history in the entertainment industry. Jennifer Landon, who plays the wild and unpredictable Teeter in Yellowstone, also comes from a family of TV legends. Jennifer is the daughter of Michael Landon, best known for his roles in Little House on the Prairie and Bonanza. This family connection has certainly helped Jennifer land roles in the industry, but her performance as Teeter has earned her praise in her own right.
Despite being from a Hollywood family, Jennifer’s portrayal of Teeter is far removed from her privileged Malibu upbringing. Teeter is a tough, foul-mouthed cowgirl with a rough-and-tumble personality. The role showcases Jennifer’s range as an actress, and she continues to impress audiences with her powerful performances on Yellowstone.
Conclusion: A Career Full of Surprises
Gil Birmingham’s journey from Twilight to Yellowstone is just one example of how versatile and talented actors can redefine their careers in unexpected ways. From playing a wise and compassionate father in Twilight to portraying a powerful leader in Yellowstone, Gil has proven that he can bring depth and complexity to any role. His dedication to portraying Indigenous characters with authenticity and respect has made him a standout in both franchises.
As Yellowstone continues to captivate audiences, and with potential spin-offs on the horizon, it’s clear that Gil Birmingham’s legacy as a groundbreaking actor is just beginning. Whether in the world of vampires and werewolves or the rugged landscapes of Montana, Gil’s ability to bring his characters to life will continue to leave a lasting impact.
