Alabama'S Furry Star Steals The Show In New Action Flick!

Smith Lake Jake's Hollywood Debut

Move aside, A-list stars – there's a new scene-stealer in town, and he's got fur! Smith Lake Jake, Alabama's beloved weather-predicting groundhog, has made his big-screen debut in the 2025 action-packed film "Bad Man." Released on September 5, the film features Jake in a memorable cameo that has audiences buzzing.

A Furry Cameo in 'Bad Man'

While "Bad Man" boasts an exciting cast, including Seann William Scott of "American Pie" fame, it's the furry guest star that has left an indelible impression. Smith Lake Jake appears about 15 minutes into the movie, sporting a houndstooth hat and sharing the screen with Scott, Johnny Simmons, and Chance Perdomo. Filmed in Alabama, Jake plays "Colt Lake Jake" – a local celebrity in the fictional town of Colt Lake, Tennessee.

“That is someone in whose presence you are unworthy to be,” an unidentified actor tells Scott’s character, Bobby Gaines. “That is Colt Lake Jake. He is a local celebrity, and you will respect him.”

Behind the Scenes of 'Bad Man'

The film, directed and co-written by Michael Diliberti, was shot in the greater Birmingham area, with locations like Helena, Adamsville, and Graysville doubling as Colt Lake. Graysville, incidentally, is home to our groundhog star, who lives with his human companion, Ginger Whitworth. "Bad Man" tells the story of a volatile cop, played by Scott, who teams up with a local deputy and his sidekick to tackle crime in a small Southern town.

Star-Studded Cast and Crew

Beyond Smith Lake Jake's standout moment, "Bad Man" features a stellar lineup including Rob Riggle and Birmingham's own Marcelle LeBlanc. The film is not only an action comedy but also a poignant tribute to Chance Perdomo, who tragically passed away before the movie's release. With a 96% positive score on Rotten Tomatoes' Popcornmeter, "Bad Man" is leaving both critics and audiences entertained.

Where to Watch

For those eager to see Smith Lake Jake in action, "Bad Man" is available on popular streaming platforms like Amazon, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home. Don't miss the chance to catch a glimpse of Alabama's furry sensation at the 0:55 mark in the trailer!