Gene Patrick Smith

Gene Patrick Smith was born in St. Louis, MO. While in St. Louis he was known for making people laugh unintentionally. He was innocent in being honest and that is where his comical edge evolved. Gene's mother would call family and friends and tell them the funny thing he did that day. Gene was annoyed because he misunderstood what was so funny, but secretly liked the attention. As time went on Gene proactively began to emulate voices he heard on television shows or people he had come in contact with that day, to make sure he was initiating the laughter. When telemarketers would call Gene's mom would have him answer the call as the lady of the house. At the age of 10 Gene was told about episodes and characters from Saturday Night Live. After weeks of trying to stay awake, Gene finally caught his first episode of this very talked about comedic sketch show. Too young to understand the comedy, but interested in the characters, Gene developed a whole new group of characters to portray. But now Gene could utilize facial expressions, tag lines, and a little bit of improv. Gene would watch episodes every week just to recap them for his mom who thought he did the characters better than the actual show. Gene began to notice his talent and set becoming a cast member of SNL one of his goals.

It wasn't until high school that Gene auditioned for his first role. It was the Caretaker in an original play called "Bloody Fear". Gene auditioned to impress his English teacher, who at the time was failing him. Once cast Gene began to actively pursue his interest in acting. Gene decided to minor in theater in college.

Gene took a few acting classes while in college. His acting teacher saw his potential but wasn't convinced that he had the emotional connection to sustain the craft of acting. Gene passed her class but was denied entry into the advanced level acting classes. Gene didn't let this minor setback ruin his dream. Gene auditioned for plays on campus and comedy groups, all of which he wasn't accepted. Gene became discouraged and decided this wasn't his calling.

As years went by Gene landed himself back home living with his mother in Baltimore. Gene had gone to visit Los Angeles for a conference and felt a sense of adventure that he was missing. Gene decided to give acting another try and depending on the outcome, give up completely or go for it head on. Gene knew it was time for him to make a big move because he had no solid responsibilities except himself. Gene took an improv class in Washington, D.C. where he learned about going out of his comfort zone, working as an ensemble, and bringing life to a scene based on the feeling of something missing. Highly regarded by his teacher Gene knew then that was all he needed was some life experiences and encouragement.

Gene packed up his stuff in boxes, took four suitcases, and shipped his car to Los Angeles.