David Watson, known worldwide as Sam The Skunkman, was one of the most influential figures in the history of cannabis. His work not only transformed the industry but helped shape the modern marijuana strains we know today. Recognized for being one of the pioneers in the development of cannabis hybrids, his legacy lives on in every Skunk harvest and the evolution of marijuana around the world.
Today we want to pay tribute to his life, his passion, and his unwavering dedication to our favorite plant.
Beginnings in the world of cannabis
David Watson began his career in the cannabis world in the 1970s when cannabis was just beginning to become a rebellious subculture in the United States. From a young age, Watson felt a deep connection to the plant and quickly became immersed in the cannabis culture of the time. In the early years of his career, which he developed alongside the Sacred Seeds collective, his interest in cannabis genetics led him to experiment with strains from around the world, especially those that displayed unique characteristics.
His innovative approach and obsession with improving the quality of cannabis led him to start working with different cannabis varieties, often crossing strains with the intention of producing more resistant plants, with better yields and a superior cannabinoid profile. It was during these years that he began to experiment with what would later become his legacy: Skunk.
The origins of Skunk
The Skunk is, probably, the most renowned marijuana genetics worldwide. In this post we tell you the origins of this legendary strain, a true wonder for the cannabis connoisseur.
Trip to Holland and the birth of Skunk
In the early 1980s, Watson decided to embark on a journey that would change the course of his career. He moved to Holland, a haven for cannabis growers at the time, where marijuana laws were more lax and cannabis cultivation was more accepted. It was in this environment that Watson was able to take his research and experimentation to the next level, alongside other renowned breeders such as Neville Shoenmakers and Ben Dronkers.
During this time, Watson, working alongside other renowned growers and breeders, developed what would become known as “Skunk.” An Indica-dominant hybrid, this strain was a cross between Afghani, a Mexican strain, and Colombian Gold, with a sturdier plant structure and a distinctive terpene profile, including its unmistakable “skunky” aroma. Skunk quickly became renowned for its potency, ease of cultivation, and for producing high-quality buds with a fast flowering period.
What made Skunk so revolutionary was that it was not only hardy but could also be successfully grown both indoors and outdoors, making high-quality cannabis available to a wider audience. Skunk soon became the base strain for many of the modern strains we know today, and its impact lives on in the cannabis industry.
Latest appearances of Sam The Skunkman
In the last decades of his life, David Watson, or Sam The Skunkman, stayed away from the public eye, choosing a more discreet life. Despite his desire to stay away from the spotlight, he never ceased to be a respected figure within the cannabis community. On occasion, he shared his knowledge through interviews, talks and collaborations with other breeders, keeping the legacy of his work alive and continuing his genetic research.
In the later years of his life, Sam The Skunkman was involved in the preservation and improvement of genetics, attempting to ensure that his strains and experiments would continue to influence the evolution of cannabis. While his public appearances were few and far between, his impact on the industry remained profound.
David Watson passed away in January 2025 leaving behind a legacy of innovation and passion for the plant that forever changed the world of cannabis. His work not only improved cannabis genetics but also contributed to the normalization and acceptance of marijuana around the world. Today, more than ever, his name remains synonymous with quality, innovation, and commitment to excellence in cannabis cultivation.
Rest in peace, Sam. Your legacy will live on for decades to come!
