Sampson, a Native American actor of the Creek Nation, achieved widespread recognition following his standout performance in the 1975 film "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest", where he shared the screen with the iconic Jack Nicholson.
Additionally, Sampson had the privilege of working alongside Clint Eastwood in the 1976 western "The Outlaw Josey Wales", further solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile actor.
Throughout his career, Sampson appeared in a variety of notable films, including "Orca" (1977),"The White Buffalo" (1977),and "Fish Hawk" (1979),showcasing his range and ability to adapt to different roles.
One of his most memorable performances came in 1986, when he co-starred in the horror classic "Poltergeist II: The Other Side", playing a Native American shaman with conviction and authenticity.
Tragically, Sampson's life was cut short in 1987 due to complications from kidney failure and malnutrition, which arose during a heart and lung replacement surgery. He was laid to rest on the reservation where he grew up, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering Native American actor.
