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Kevin Smith Honors Shop Owner Who Made Film Possible
26 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Tarlochen Thapar, owner of Quick Stop, died Friday at 90.
- Thapar allowed Kevin Smith to film 'Clerks' in his store.
- Smith credits Thapar for his American Dream and career.
Filmmaker Kevin Smith has paid tribute to Tarlochen Thapar, the owner of the Quick Stop grocery and video store in Leonardo, New Jersey, who passed away on Friday at the age of 90. Thapar's business provided Smith with his first job in 1989 and, crucially, granted permission to film Smith's seminal debut film, "Clerks," within its premises during off-hours in 1993.
Smith shared that working at the Quick Stop was a dream come true and that Thapar's willingness to let him shoot his microbudget film fundamentally changed his life. He highlighted Thapar's journey as an immigrant, suggesting that his arrival in America directly contributed to Smith's own "American Dream" becoming a reality. The director conveyed heartfelt thanks for Thapar's bravery in coming to the United States.
The "Clerks" actors Brian O'Halloran and Jason Mewes also shared their condolences. "Clerks," released in 1994, became a cult classic and launched Smith's successful career. Smith's tribute concluded with a poignant reflection on a past conversation about reincarnation, expressing hope for a future reunion with Thapar.
