As a native of Arkansas, a state that has had a profound impact on his sense of self, Smithers embarked on a journey of patriotism and duty at the tender age of 17, when he enlisted in the United States Army in the year 1970. It was during his four-year tenure with the prestigious 101st Airborne Division, affectionately known as the "Screaming Eagles", that he demonstrated unwavering dedication and a commitment to service, ultimately resulting in his honorable discharge in 1974 with the esteemed rank of Sergeant.
Noted for his impressive military background, Smithers embarked on a journey of academic pursuit, culminating in the attainment of a Bachelor's degree in Animal Science in the year 1978. His profound fascination with the animal kingdom ultimately guided him towards the establishment of a venture in 2001, at his farm situated in the picturesque town of Violet Hill. Initially, his menagerie comprised a distinctive assortment of "Four-Horned" Jacob Sheep and a pair of Black Welsh Mountain Sheep, which served as the foundation for his groundbreaking endeavour. Over time, through unwavering dedication and an unrelenting spirit of perseverance, Smithers has successfully developed a novel breed, which he has aptly named the "J. Welsh Black Pearl". This remarkable achievement serves as a testament to his unyielding passion and commitment to his craft.
In the year 2004, a pivotal moment in the illustrious career of Smithers unfolded as he embarked upon an innovative and ambitious venture, further solidifying his reputation as a trailblazing agricultural entrepreneur. This marked a significant departure from his established endeavors, as he took the bold step of introducing exotic hog farming into his repertoire. The acquisition of a select few pure-blood European Wild Hogs, renowned for their exceptional characteristics and genetic purity, served as the catalyst for this new chapter in his life. Moreover, his prized possession, the majestic and enigmatic four-horned ram, Willie, made a truly unforgettable appearance alongside these hogs in the critically acclaimed film, "A Bothered Conscience".
Smithers, a seasoned producer, leveraged his extensive expertise in the construction industry to infuse his work with a unique blend of hands-on expertise and innovative thinking. By personally designing and building numerous special effects, he demonstrated his remarkable capacity for creative problem-solving, exemplified by the film's most memorable and attention-grabbing feature, the "boot spikes." This unconventional approach to production, which sets him apart from the typical Hollywood producer who often prioritizes their smartphone over the task at hand, allowed Smithers to bring a refreshing perspective to the filmmaking process.
Noteworthy is the humble admission of Dan Smithers, who has been fortunate enough to be entrusted with the role of the enigmatic and unsettling Keller McGavin, a character synonymous with the image of a knife-wielding hillbilly. The audience's reaction to his portrayal has been nothing short of phenomenal, with widespread acclaim and admiration pouring in from all corners. As a result, it is not far-fetched to suggest that Smithers may soon find himself basking in the glory of being hailed as a "cult hero", a title that would undoubtedly be a crowning achievement in his already impressive and storied career.
