Crystle Lightning: A Star Shining Bright in Indigenous Entertainment

At Daybreak Star Radio, we are thrilled to highlight the remarkable achievements of Crystle Lightning, an Indigenous actress from the Enoch Cree Nation in Alberta. Crystle’s journey in the entertainment industry began at the tender age of nine when her family moved from Canada to Los Angeles. Her first lead role in the feature film “3 Ninjas: Knuckle Up” marked the beginning of an illustrious career.

Crystle Lightning’s impressive repertoire spans film and television, with notable appearances in “Outlander” (Starz), “Trickster” (CW), “The Good Doctor” (ABC), “Ghosts” (CBS), “Three Pines” (Prime TV), and “Lawmen: Bass Reeves” (Paramount+). This year, audiences can catch her in “Spirit Rangers” (Netflix), George R. R. Martin’s “Mary Margaret Road Grader” (directed by Steven Paul Judd), and “Fancy Dance” (directed by Erica Tremblay).

In 2021, Crystle was honored with the Canadian Screen Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series, a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication. But her contributions to the arts extend beyond acting. Crystle is the Co-Creator and Director of the all-native, hit musical “Bear Grease,” an Indigenous twist on the 1978 classic “Grease.” This groundbreaking musical was written in Treaty 6 Alberta, on the traditional territories of the Nehiyaw (Cree), Denesuline’ (Dene), Nakota Sioux (Stoney), Anishinaabe (Saulteaux), and Niitsitapi (Blackfoot).

“Bear Grease” is more than a show; it’s a celebration of Indigenous culture and talent, showcasing Crystle’s creative vision and directorial prowess. Her training at the Beverly Hills Playhouse under the esteemed Milton Katselas has undoubtedly contributed to her multifaceted career.

Living in Treaty 6, Alberta, with her husband, son, and two dogs, Crystle Lightning continues to inspire and pave the way for Indigenous artists in the entertainment industry.

To delve deeper into Crystle’s journey and her impact on Indigenous entertainment, watch the full interview conducted by DJ Red and DJ Dirty Harry on Daybreak Star Radio. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from Crystle herself about her experiences, challenges, and triumphs.