Kevin Smith is an American filmmaker, actor, and comedian, best known for his work in the independent film industry. He gained fame with his debut film, Clerks, released in 1994, which became a cult classic. Smith is also recognized for creating the View Askewniverse, a shared universe of films that includes titles like Mallrats, Chasing Amy, and Dogma. In addition to filmmaking, Smith is a prolific podcaster and has hosted several popular shows, including SModcast. He is known for his distinctive storytelling style and often incorporates personal experiences into his work. Smith has also ventured into comic books and television, further expanding his creative portfolio.