Sarah Podemski, a talented Anishinaabe/Ashkenazi multidisciplinary artist from Toronto, has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry. Her passion for recreating the Indigenous narrative, which has been misrepresented since the beginning of cinema, is evident in her work.
As a television star, Sarah has appeared in multiple shows, including the critically acclaimed and award-winning series "Reservation Dogs" on FX, where she plays the role of Bear's mother, Rita. In this series, Rita is on a journey of self-discovery and growth as a mother. Sarah's portrayal of Rita has received widespread acclaim.
In addition to her work on "Reservation Dogs," Sarah has also appeared in the Syfy comedy "Resident Alien." In this show, she plays the role of Kayla, a lawyer and the best friend and support system of Asta, who is a mother navigating the challenges of self-reflection and motherhood.
Sarah's career in the performing arts began at a young age. She booked her first role in the German TV series "Blue Hawk" at the age of 11 and went on to appear in the iconic series "Goosebumps." Her extensive career includes roles in various TV shows, such as CBS' "Bull," Amazon's "Tin Star," and CBC's "The Coroner." She has also appeared in several feature films, including "Mekko," which won her the "Best Supporting Actress" award at the American Indian Film Festival.
Throughout her career, Sarah has been dedicated to raising awareness and elevating Indigenous and Jewish narratives in the entertainment industry. In addition to her on-camera presence, she writes and produces alongside her husband, James Gadon. They are currently working on a 6-episode documentary series that explores the experiences of local business owners, visual artists, and Indigenous activists during the pandemic in Southwestern Ontario, Canada. The series also includes an episode that highlights the first Residential School in Canada.
Beyond her work in film and television, Sarah is also a talented craftswoman. She runs "Totem Designs," where she creates handmade dream-catchers with a modern twist. Her products have been featured in various markets across North America and were included in the 2019 HGTV holiday gift guide. In 2019, she was a featured artist at the One of a Kind Show in Toronto.
