Jeff was born in East Los Angeles, California, to parents who later divorced when he was just three years old. He was subsequently raised by his immigrant grandparents from Cuba, who played a significant role in shaping his early life.
His father, Richard Hathcock, was a renowned television and newspaper reporter in Los Angeles, covering some of the city's most historic and significant stories. On the other hand, his mother was a successful real estate broker and restaurateur, with a thriving career that undoubtedly had a lasting impact on Jeff.
Jeff's educational journey took him to California State University, Long Beach, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Theater Arts. During his time at the university, he made his first feature film, a western titled "Three Sided Coin," utilizing college talent and a 16mm Bolex camera.
Following his graduation, Jeff worked as a writer for Disneyland, penning scripts for their theme park and special events. This experience eventually led to an opportunity to collaborate with Academy Award winner Walter Matthau, Emmy Award winner Jack Klugman, and even craft the radio jingle for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
Jeff's next move was to become the Talent Supervisor for Knott's Berry Farm, where he wrote and directed the summer 1982 attraction "Calico Square Shootout." He also directed "Knott's 60th Anniversary Celebration," a re-creation of the historic drilling of the Golden Spike at Promontory Point, Utah, which united the two railroads.
In 1994, Jeff founded the Theatre Guild and Southeast Civic Light Opera, a venture that has seen him direct an impressive 180 stage plays to date. Between his theatrical endeavors, he has also written and directed seven feature films, four of which have gained cult classic status. His most recent project, "The Two Pamelas," boasts a remarkable 9.1 rating on IMDb.
In addition to his work in film and theater, Jeff has also ventured into novel writing, penning three books: "Cult of the Cobra," "Eye of the Cobra," and "The Society of Heaven and Earth," all of which are published by Three Corners Publishing.
