Everything Everywhere Daily: History, Science, Geography, & More · Gary Arndt

Who is Alan Smithee

March 7, 2026·15 min·1 clip

Alan Smithee directed over 156 films but never existed—discover why Hollywood created this phantom director.

This episode explores the history of Alan Smithee, a pseudonym created by the Directors Guild of America for directors who disavow their work due to creative disputes. It traces its origins from 1969 to its retirement in 2000, highlighting key films and the impact on Hollywood credit rules.

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from Everything Everywhere Daily: History, Science, Geography, & More