‘Trailer Park Boys’ star Mike Smith steps back amid a 2017 sexual assault charge; Gary Howsam takes over as managing director.
After wrapping Season 13 of Trailer Park Boys in August, actor Mike Smith — best known for playing Bubbles — is stepping back from the hit mockumentary series amid an ongoing sexual assault lawsuit.
In a statement shared with multiple outlets, Trailer Park Boys Inc. confirmed that Smith, who also served as the company’s managing director, has “stepped away” from his duties following charges filed last month over an alleged incident from 2017.
“We are aware of the allegation concerning Mike Smith dating back to 2017 and take such matters seriously,” the group said. “We recognize how difficult an allegation of this nature is for all involved. Out of respect for the legal process, we will not comment further on the case.”
The company also noted that producer Gary Howsam has now assumed Smith’s responsibilities as managing director.
According to CBC News, the charge against Smith was filed in Nova Scotia provincial court on October 2. The alleged incident reportedly occurred on December 30, 2017, in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.
Smith, 52, has been a central figure in Trailer Park Boys since the show first premiered in 2001. His character, the lovable and quirky Bubbles, became a fan favorite alongside Robb Wells’ Ricky and John Paul Tremblay’s Julian.
The cult Canadian comedy, created by Mike Clattenburg, originally ran for seven seasons before wrapping in 2007. Netflix later revived the series in 2014, helping it reach an even broader international audience.
Season 13, which was filmed in Nova Scotia earlier this year, marks the first new installment in nearly eight years. The show’s loyal fanbase had been eagerly awaiting its return — but Smith’s legal troubles have now cast uncertainty over his future involvement with the project.
While neither Smith nor his representatives have commented publicly, the show’s production team emphasized that they are respecting the legal process and prioritizing professionalism as the matter unfolds.
