Cole Brings Plenty, a 27-year-old actor who portrayed Pete Plenty Clouds in the television series “1923,” was found dead in Kansas after being reported missing by his family. His body was discovered in a wooded area in Johnson County, near Missouri, by deputies responding to a report of an unoccupied vehicle. The cause of his death was not provided by officials. Brings Plenty, who identified as Mnicoujou Lakota on social media, appeared in several Western television shows and was an advocate for Native American issues.
In May 2023, Brings Plenty and his uncle Mo Brings Plenty visited the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs in Washington to discuss the abuse of Native American children in boarding schools, a topic depicted in the television show “1923.” Additionally, he attended Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kansas. His father, Joe Brings Plenty Sr., confirmed his son’s death and expressed gratitude for the support received during the search efforts. Mo Brings Plenty shared a missing person poster indicating that Cole had gone missing on March 31 and had failed to attend an appointment with his agent, which was considered unusual behavior for him.
The Lawrence Police Department had submitted an affidavit for Cole Brings Plenty’s arrest following his identification as a suspect in a domestic violence case that occurred on the morning of March 31. Officers responded to a report of a woman screaming for help in an apartment in Lawrence, where the suspect had fled before their arrival. Due to the nature of the allegations, limited information was shared to protect the victim. Brings Plenty’s family contacted the police expressing concern and reported him missing, leading to his discovery in Johnson County, approximately 28 miles southeast of Lawrence.
Cole Brings Plenty’s death has garnered attention due to his involvement in highlighting issues affecting Native Americans and his role in television shows that shed light on historical injustices. The circumstances surrounding his passing, including the domestic violence allegations, have contributed to the mystery and sadness surrounding his untimely death. As the investigation into the cause of his death continues, family, friends, and fans of the actor mourn his loss and remember his talent and advocacy work in the industry.
The legacy left behind by Cole Brings Plenty, both as an actor and as an advocate for Native American rights, will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and appreciated his contributions to the entertainment industry. His portrayal of characters that reflected the struggles and triumphs of indigenous peoples resonated with audiences, while his efforts to raise awareness about important issues will continue to inspire others to make a difference. As the community mourns his passing, they will also celebrate his life and the impact he made during his time in the spotlight.
