lone_ranger_tonto_johnny_depp_a_p.jpgJohnny Depp is set to play Tonto in big screen remake of The Lone Ranger, and after hearing the news of his casting, the New Mexico-based Comanche Nation Indian tribe has adopted him!

LaDonna Harris, a Comanche and president of Americans for Indian Opportunity, told the website Indian Country, “I reached out, and Johnny was very receptive to the idea. He seemed proud to receive the invitation, and we were honored that he so enthusiastically agreed.”

“Welcoming Johnny into the family in the traditional way was so fitting,” Harris continued. “He’s a very thoughtful human being, and throughout his life and career, he has exhibited traits that are aligned with the values and worldview that Indigenous peoples share.”

Depp has reportedly been interested in updating The Lone Ranger in an attempt to re-define the role of Tonto, who is John Reid's sidekick in the story. Armie Hammer plays Reid (aka the Lone Ranger), and the first photos of the two hit the web earlier this year, featuring Depp with a fully painted face and a crow on his head.