Capturing Crockett: My Nostalgic Story of Portraying a Childhood Hero

Well, I wasn’t born on a mountaintop in Tennessee, the greenest state in the land of the free. However, I was born just across the state line in the majestic Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. Like most young boys of my ilk, I was introduced to Fess Parker’s timeless ballad lauding the adventures of legendary woodsman, folk hero, military Colonel, and politician Davy Crockett. I often pretended to be the elite marksman as I strode around our horse farm with my trusty Daisy BB rifle in tow. Rest assured no bears were slain when I was 3 years old, but many a soda can suffered such a fate through my formative years.

Having said all of that, it is no wonder I was ecstatic when I received an audition to portray none other than said childhood hero in Imagicomm’s “County Line: All In.” I had a few days to prepare, but in reality, I had been preparing for this role most of my life. Luckily a good friend happened to have a raccoon skin hat that I could borrow and I fashinoned my wooden Louisville Slugger into the musket I would need to fend off any foe. I set up my lights, and camera, and settled in for action. I slowly toted my weapon as I tiptoed through the scene like Elmer Fudd hunting Bugs. I then raise my piece, squint one eye, and line up my sights for the perfect shot. Just then I am interrupted by a fellow traveler, and a surprising twist ensues. You’ll have to watch the film to see the rest. I’ve got to leave something for the imagination.

As is my mantra, I did the work, poured my all into the scene, and watched the playback. Satisfied that I had to the best of my ability captured the essence of my character, I balled up the script and tossed it into the trash. Kobe! As long as I have done my job, this simple act brings me peace and closure and I move on.

To my delight, a week or so later we were hanging out with our dear friends Doug, Lindsey, and Harris when I received an email from casting. The note cordially informed me that I had indeed booked the role. The skies parted. Boom. Booked.

I’d like to say that everything moving forward was without a hiccup, however, there were some bumps along the way. This project was taking place during COVID. This meant I needed to travel to Charlotte a few days prior to filming for a fitting and testing. The only problem was that I had already been slated for a lead role in an independent film in Wilmington. Even though I knew I could make both work, this seemed to make casting uneasy. The plan was to come to Charlotte Tuesday for the fitting and COVID test, drive back that evening, film in Wilmington Wednesday-Friday, and then return to Charlotte to film on Monday. The fitting was a blast as I was suited in wild frontier attire. I was especially impressed that director Brent Christy came by to meet me and introduce himself. Class act. The following days I had several frantic calls from my agent informing me of the concerns being presented. I really have to hand it to Anne though who advocated for me and assuaged all of production’s concerns.

The film in Wilmington was incredibly challenging and fulfilling. Now it was Sunday evening and time to switch gears to my man Davy. I arose early on Monday morning to make the 4-hour drive for my 9:00 am call time. I watched the sun come up as I traversed 74 Charlotte bound. As usual, I felt the tinge of excitement and nerves that are my shotgun companion. I pulled up Fess’s classic ballad and listened several times. I reminded myself that I wasn’t being asked to patch up the crack in the liberty bell, only to bring to life one of the most iconic characters in American History, no big deal. In my heart though I knew I was ready and as I pulled into the parking lot quite a few minutes early, my nerves faded and my confidence grew.

My jaw dropped when I arrived on set and saw my name in bold letters on my own trailer! We’ve come a long way, kid. I was given a new script just in case and instructed to make myself comfortable until hair and makeup were ready for me. Usually, the team has their hands full attempting to bring me to a polished shine. This time, the goal was to achieve a gritty, weathered look. No problem, I love method acting. Jennifer was lovely and an incredibly kind spirit as she added just the right amount of grime to my bearded mug.

Back in the trailer, I scan the script one more time before I hear a knock at the door. “Clark, ready for you on set.” Game time! I was escorted to set, introduced to the talented crew, and directed to my chair to await direction. Legendary character actor Danny Vinson was incredibly kind and courteous as he welcomed me just before the armorer called me over for a musket lesson. This was it, all the time spent target practicing with my Daddy and Papaw was now going to be put to the test. I was given thorough instructions on handling this boom stick. I was also graciously allowed to familiarize myself with all the intricacies and get used to the sheer weight as I would be running through the woods carrying it. The armorer and other crew paid me a huge compliment, letting me know it really looked like I knew what I was doing. Thanks, Pap and Bobby. I was also informed that I was holding the same musket that Dennis Quaid had used in the epic film “The Alamo.” Whaaaaaaaaa??? Incredible.

At the beginning of this story, I mentioned childhood heroes. It wouldn’t be right not to mention two good ol’ boys that fit that category for me growing up. That would be the Duke Boys of Hazzard, Kentucky. Years earlier I had been fortunate enough to be John Schneider aka Bo Duke’s stand-in and did I mention who the star of County Line is? None other than Bo’s cousin and hoodslidin’ counterpart Tom Wopat aka Luke Duke. Talk about a full-circle moment. This pretty much makes me an honorary Duke cousin right? I had been warmed by how kind and generous John had been and Tom was no different. Between takes Tom approached me, shook my hand, encouraged me, and thanked me for being there. He then proceeded to inquire about the musket I was holding. Fortunately, I had just been given a detailed run down and was able to relay the information. We chatted like old friends for a few minutes as a lens was changed and then it was back to work. Thanks, John and Tom for making me feel like a good ol’ boy.

Clark with John Schneider, 2013

I couldn’t help but feel a little sad when my character was wrapped for the day. I could’ve done it all day. I remember thinking, “I can’t believe I get paid to do this.”

What an experience. I genuinely loved this project. It was a culmination of so many parts of my life. I will never forget this role and what it meant to be to be given the opportunity.

County Line: All In is available on Fandango and INSP Network. My scenes open the film so get your popcorn ready before you press play.

Thanks to the wonderful cast and crew and Imagicomm Entertainment for allowing me to fulfill another dream.

Much love,

Clark