Eric Schweig is a name that resonates with strength, resilience, and talent in the world of film and television. Best known for his powerful portrayal of Uncas in the 1992 cinematic hit The Last of the Mohicans, Eric Schweig has come a long way from his early life in Canada’s Northwest Territories. Born into an Inuvialuit family, he was adopted as an infant by a non-Indigenous household where he endured years of abuse. At just 16, Eric Schweig made the courageous decision to leave that environment behind and start fresh in Toronto—a turning point that would eventually lead him toward a remarkable career.
It wasn’t until he was 18 that Eric Schweig discovered his passion for acting through theater, and by age 22, he had already landed a significant role in the Canadian film The Shaman’s Source. That performance caught the attention of major casting directors, paving the way for his breakout role in The Last of the Mohicans. Overnight, Eric Schweig became one of the most sought-after actors for Native American characters in Hollywood.
Throughout the 1990s, Eric Schweig continued to build an impressive body of work, appearing in films like The Scarlet Letter and Tom and Huck, as well as the beloved TV series Due South. Yet behind the scenes, he struggled privately with addiction to drugs and alcohol. His journey wasn’t without setbacks, but in 2002, Eric Schweig achieved sobriety—a victory he remains proud of to this day.
As the new millennium unfolded, Eric Schweig solidified his reputation as one of Canada’s finest dramatic actors. His moving performance in The Big Eden (2000) earned widespread acclaim, showcasing his depth and emotional range. Then, in 2011, he took on a leading role in Blackstone, a critically acclaimed television drama set on a First Nations reserve, further highlighting his commitment to authentic Indigenous storytelling.
Beyond the screen, Eric Schweig uses his platform to give back. He actively supports at-risk youth through his involvement with Resource Assistance for Youth in Winnipeg, serving as a mentor and role model—proof that Eric Schweig is not only a talented actor but also a compassionate advocate for change.
When it comes to Eric Schweig’s film career, one standout performance definitely comes to mind—his role in The Last of the Mohicans (1992), which happens to be Eric Schweig’s highest rated movie. Critics and audiences alike have praised the film over the years, and it remains a strong highlight in Eric Schweig’s body of work. On the other end of the spectrum, Eric Schweig appeared in Tom and Huck (1995), a film that didn’t quite resonate as well, earning it the spot as Eric Schweig’s lowest rated movie. While the journey through his filmography shows a range of roles, it’s clear that Eric Schweig shines brightest in more dramatic, intense settings like the one he brought to life in The Last of the Mohicans.