Hollywood actor, former Clemson player visits Batesville, Greensburg

Working with local author on new book

(BATESVILLE, Ind.) – Alabama native Jock McKissic is a name worth remembering when it comes to movies and television. 

McKissic played on the defensive line for the Clemson Tigers from 2005-2008. 

He had a brief stint with the Cincinnati Bengals who signed him, but later terminated the contract due to an injury he had suffered in high school. 

He would go on to play in the Arena League and set several records before getting a tryout with the New York Giants. 

McKissic eventually realized his football days were over, and decided to dive head-first into another passion.

Since childhood, he always had an interest in acting. That has turned into a career where he now lives in Los Angeles and is also a producer and director. 

He has appeared in shows such as Law & Order: SVU, Mayor of Kingstown, Clipped, Your Honor, and several others. He has also earned a scene with Oprah and has struck up a friendship with Adam Sandler and other actors. 

What Brings Him To Southeast Indiana?

McKissic has learned a lot of life lessons over the years and wants to share them with the world. 

He is writing a book and discovered local author Laura Huber to assist him in the writing process. 

The two have been working together by Zoom and McKissic decided he wanted to travel here to work in-person on Sunday and Monday.  

“She talked up these small towns in Indiana and told me how similar it would be to my hometown in Alabama, and I’ve enjoyed every moment of being here,” McKissic told The 812. 

They have been working at places such as Liberty Park and the Batesville Library. They’ve also stopped by restaurants including The Shift as well as Wagner’s Village Inn. 

While in the area, McKissic found out about a local high school football team that has had some struggles on the field. 

He went to Greensburg High School on Monday to talk with the football players about the sport, life and overcoming obstacles. He gave a moving speech and said he would be following up with the team. 

The Book:

Jock says the book will break down numerous lessons from his life with the subtitle being “from half full to overflowing.” 

“I think everyone can picture their life the same. And what that half full means to me, is what you’re born with and what God gives you. That’s what you start with every morning. And it’s up to you if you want to fill the rest of that glass up,” he said. 

Laura lives in the St. Mary’s area of Franklin County and says it has been amazing working with Jock. 

“He is one of the smartest people in the whole world. I have learned so much from him. He takes life lessons and breaks them down to a point where I can not only apply to my own life, but take a step further and make myself even better,” she said. 

The book is titled ‘50 Principles to Thrive in Life’ and The 812 will provide an update on the progress of the book as well as its release.