Cannabis Icon David ‘Sam the Skunkman’ Watson Dies at 75

David Paul Watson, better known as “Sam the Skunkman,” has died at the age of 75. The legendary cannabis breeder, who played a pivotal role in shaping modern cannabis genetics, passed away on January 27. His wife of 54 years, Diana, was by his side as they prepared to visit longtime friend and fellow cannabis advocate Todd McCormick.

McCormick confirmed Watson’s passing in an emotional social media post, calling him a mentor, a friend, and a true pioneer. “His passion for cannabis and contributions to the community are legendary,” McCormick wrote. “Light one up for the Skunkman—chances are, his work is in the strain you’re smoking today.”

A Founding Father of Modern Cannabis

Few figures in cannabis history have had an impact as profound as Watson. His pioneering work with cannabis genetics, particularly Skunk #1 and Haze, set the stage for the hybridization of cannabis that dominates the industry today.

Fellow breeder Ryan Lee of Chimera Genetics, who spent time with Watson’s family after his passing, described him as the “cannabis silverback”—the wise elder who had been there, done it first, and left an indelible mark on the industry. “People are still replicating work he did decades ago,” Lee said. “He laid the foundation for the modern cannabis seed and medical cannabis industries.”

From Hippie “Jingles” to Global Influencer

Before he became Sam the Skunkman, Watson was known as “Jingles.” The nickname, given to him in the 1960s, came from the tiny bells he wore on his pants, which jingled as he walked.

His deep curiosity about cannabis took him across the globe. In the early 1970s, he sold everything he owned and hitchhiked from Morocco to India, forging relationships with local cannabis growers. He wasn’t just collecting seeds—he was gathering knowledge that would fuel his groundbreaking work in breeding.

His early writings, including a 1979 Blotter magazine article under the pen name “Selgnij” (jingles spelled backward), detailed his understanding of selective breeding and cannabis cultivation techniques. These insights helped shape how cannabis growers approached breeding for potency, resilience, and climate adaptation.

The Man Behind Skunk #1

Skunk #1, perhaps Watson’s most famous contribution, was a game-changer. The strain, a hybrid of Afghan indica, Mexican sativa, and Colombian Gold sativa, became one of the most influential cannabis cultivars of all time. It won the first-ever High Times Cannabis Cup in 1988 and laid the genetic groundwork for countless hybrids.

But Skunk #1 wasn’t Watson’s only masterpiece. His work also contributed to other legendary strains, including Haze, California Orange, Early Girl, Afghan #1, and Durban Poison.

  • Skunk #1 – A hybrid known for its potent effects and distinctive skunky aroma.
  • Haze – A high-energy sativa that influenced countless modern strains.
  • Durban Poison – A South African landrace preserved and popularized through his breeding efforts.

Amsterdam and the Seed Revolution

In 1985, Watson left California for Amsterdam, carrying a reported 250,000 cannabis seeds. A year later, he launched Cultivator’s Choice, the first cannabis seed company in Amsterdam, and helped spark the city’s rise as a global cannabis hub.

His work didn’t stop at breeding. Watson co-authored “Hemp Disease and Pests” with cannabis researchers Robert C. Clarke and John McPartland, advancing the understanding of cannabis horticulture beyond breeding and into disease resistance.

A Legacy That Lives On

Cannabis industry veterans, breeders, and advocates have poured out tributes since Watson’s passing. Marcus “Bubbleman” Richardson, a longtime friend and cannabis extraction expert, described Watson as a father figure who shaped his career.

“You made me a better hash maker,” Richardson wrote. “I will carry your lessons with me forever. And when we meet again, we’ll take some monster dabs out of a Roor Bong.”

Watson’s work continues to influence the cannabis industry today. Many of the strains bred in the 1970s and 80s form the genetic backbone of modern hybrids, and his breeding techniques remain standard practice.

His passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions to cannabis culture, science, and breeding will live on in every seed, every bud, and every inhale.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *