GET TO KNOW
THE TEAM
MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE TRUE GRIT NAME
True Grit Productions was born from the vision of three friends who live and breathe the western lifestyle—and know the film industry from the inside out. Recognizing a gap in the business, they set out to raise the standard. With seasoned horses, reliable gear, and the kind of crew that understands both life on the ranch and what it takes on set, True Grit brings a level of authenticity you can feel.
Jesse Thomson
Clinton, British Columbia
(403) 815-0128
Jesse grew up on a cattle ranch, spending countless hours in the saddle alongside his father. That early exposure to hard work, animals, and the western lifestyle shaped who he is today. He now shares that life with his wife Elyse and their two children, Casey and Falyn, raising cattle and riding together as a family.
As a young man, Jesse competed in rodeo events including bareback riding, calf roping, and team roping—a passion he still pursues. After high school, he trained as a mechanic, but a chance opportunity in the film industry quickly redirected his path.
He started as a wrangler and soon moved into SSE and stunt work. Over time, Jesse discovered his true calling as an Animal Coordinator. His eye for detail, strong work ethic, and deep respect for the animals have earned him a trusted reputation on set.
Jesse credits his success to the support of his partners, the dedication of the True Grit wrangling crew, and the exceptional animal stars they work with. For him, the film industry has become not just a career—but a way of life he’s incredibly thankful for.
As a young man, Jesse competed in rodeo events including bareback riding, calf roping, and team roping—a passion he still pursues. After high school, he trained as a mechanic, but a chance opportunity in the film industry quickly redirected his path.
He started as a wrangler and soon moved into SSE and stunt work. Over time, Jesse discovered his true calling as an Animal Coordinator. His eye for detail, strong work ethic, and deep respect for the animals have earned him a trusted reputation on set.
Jesse credits his success to the support of his partners, the dedication of the True Grit wrangling crew, and the exceptional animal stars they work with. For him, the film industry has become not just a career—but a way of life he’s incredibly thankful for.
Jordan Dodds
Ponoka, Alberta
(403) 783-0246
Jordan is a fourth-generation rancher, born and raised in the heart of Alberta. He’s spent the last 25 years working in the film industry as a wrangler and stunt performer, bringing the cowboy lifestyle to the screen with authenticity and skill.
Before turning to film full-time, Jordan built a career in rodeo. He started young—steer riding as a kid, then moving into tie-down and team roping. Over two decades, he won multiple Finals and Season Leader Awards and qualified twice for the Canadian Finals Rodeo.
At 15, Jordan began his film career under the guidance of the legendary Tom Glass. That early start launched him into the wrangling world, where he’s had the opportunity to work on and coordinate some of the biggest productions ever made in Canada.
Today, Jordan continues to combine his love of ranching and film. He’s proud of the talented people he’s met along the way—many of whom are now part of the True Grit crew—and he’s grateful to share both his work and his life with his family.
Before turning to film full-time, Jordan built a career in rodeo. He started young—steer riding as a kid, then moving into tie-down and team roping. Over two decades, he won multiple Finals and Season Leader Awards and qualified twice for the Canadian Finals Rodeo.
At 15, Jordan began his film career under the guidance of the legendary Tom Glass. That early start launched him into the wrangling world, where he’s had the opportunity to work on and coordinate some of the biggest productions ever made in Canada.
Today, Jordan continues to combine his love of ranching and film. He’s proud of the talented people he’s met along the way—many of whom are now part of the True Grit crew—and he’s grateful to share both his work and his life with his family.
Pat Griffin
Cochrane, Alberta
(403) 813-1938
Pat is a third-generation rancher who grew up in the saddle on his family’s historic property, Griffin Valley Ranch. Located near Cochrane, Alberta, the ranch was once Canada’s largest dude ranch, home to over 800 horses. Today, it remains the Griffin family's home and the base of operations for True Grit Productions.
Pat has spent the last 20 years working in the film industry as a wrangler, stunt performer, coordinator, and more. His connection to the entertainment world runs deep—his great-grandfather rode with Wild Bill Cody in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, and that legacy of performance continues through Pat's work today.
When he’s not on set, Pat is at home on the ranch with his wife, McKaylynn, and their son, Hayes. Together, they care for the True Grit horses and raise cattle on the land that’s been in the family for generations. Outside of work, Pat and McKaylynn enjoy competing in team roping events across North America. Meanwhile, Hayes is just beginning to learn what it means to be a cowboy—and he’s loving every minute of it.
Pat has spent the last 20 years working in the film industry as a wrangler, stunt performer, coordinator, and more. His connection to the entertainment world runs deep—his great-grandfather rode with Wild Bill Cody in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, and that legacy of performance continues through Pat's work today.
When he’s not on set, Pat is at home on the ranch with his wife, McKaylynn, and their son, Hayes. Together, they care for the True Grit horses and raise cattle on the land that’s been in the family for generations. Outside of work, Pat and McKaylynn enjoy competing in team roping events across North America. Meanwhile, Hayes is just beginning to learn what it means to be a cowboy—and he’s loving every minute of it.
Horses & Livestock
Wagons, Tack & Gear
Wranglers & On-Set Support
Jesse
403-815-0128
Jordan
403-783-0246
Pat
403-813-1938
based out of Cochrane, Alberta, Canada