Cast Changes Rock Moonshiners 2025: Surprises, Exits, and Heart-Wrenching Moments

The Discovery Channel’s enduring docu-series Moonshiners has hooked viewers since 2011, offering a gritty look into the high-stakes, shadowy realm of Appalachian moonshine production. As it enters its 15th season in 2025—with a premiere around early November—the series keeps evolving, introducing fresh talent, intense rivalries, and poignant remembrances of those no longer with us. Here’s your full 2025 rundown on the active shiners, those who’ve bowed out, and the ones we’ve mourned.

🟢 Who Is Still on Moonshiners in 2025?

Tim Smith An original star, Tim has evolved from underground operator to proprietor of Climax Moonshine. He stays true to his heritage, guiding newcomers and tackling unique endeavors. In Season 15, expect him to delve into ancestral formulas amid modern challenges like sustainable sourcing.

Steven Ray “Tickle” The beloved prankster rejoined full-time post his legal issues in Season 7. This year, he’s innovating with hidden still designs, resurrecting forgotten trails, and transforming surplus produce into potent brews, keeping his playful spirit alive.

Mark Ramsey & Eric “Digger” Manes Mentored by the iconic Popcorn Sutton, this powerhouse pair remains central. In 2025, they’re navigating heightened raids, training upstart teams, crafting exotic blends, and defending their turf while expanding their legal Sugarlands Distilling ventures.

Josh Owens After surviving a severe bike accident in 2022, Josh is fully engaged. Season 15 sees him collaborating on hybrid runs, like fruit-rye mixes, and fusing his mechanical expertise with distillation techniques.

Mike Cockrell & Jerry Benson The adventurous pair from Mississippi and North Carolina keeps innovating. Recent episodes feature them engineering multi-proof systems and exploring niche projects, such as fermented drinks for alternative communities.

Henry Law Now flying solo after the loss of his cousin Kenny, Henry upholds Virginia’s fruit brandy traditions from Franklin County, embodying timeless methods and family heritage.

Richard & Craig Landry, Mark Rogers These recurring figures stay involved through joint operations and local distill runs, adding depth to the ensemble.

Big Chuck A steady presence, Big Chuck focuses on fruit-based shines, reigniting old feuds and pushing flavor boundaries in the new season.

Josh “Pony” Baldwin Potentially returning after a brief absence, Pony could bring fresh energy to group efforts, though his status remains unconfirmed.

🔵 New Faces in 2025 Season 15 introduces modern twists with a young North Carolina duo employing solar-powered stills and tech like fermentation apps. A female-led Tennessee crew also joins, shaking up the scene with innovative tastes and bold attitudes, challenging longstanding norms.

Moonshiners – Discovery Channel Reality Series – Where To Watch

🔻 Who Left Moonshiners? – Departed Cast Members

• Jeff Waldroup (Seasons 2–7): Exited quietly with his son.
• Lance Waldroup (Seasons 2–7): Departed amid personal struggles prior to his passing.
• Bill Canny (Seasons 2–6): Known for classic methods, he gradually phased out.
• Chico & Sandra (Seasons 3–7): Shifted focus to family.
• Marvin “Jim Tom” Hedrick (Seasons 2–5, recurring): Stepped back due to advancing age and health.
• Tyler Wood (Seasons 3–5): Had a short stint without returning.
• Roy Grooms, “Muddog” Mike Mitchell, “Shot” Brandon, Darlene: Early contributors who left their imprint but departed over time.
• J.B. Rader (Seasons 6–11): Popcorn Sutton’s ex-partner, now retired from the spotlight.
• Amanda Bryant (Recent seasons): A fan-favorite who left amid ongoing disputes, fueling rumors of a comeback.

🕊️ In Memoriam – Moonshiners Cast Members Who Have Passed Away

• Kenny Law (Died January 14, 2025, at 68): Celebrated for his expertise and guidance, he passed peacefully with family. No cause was disclosed publicly.
• Lance Waldroup (Died March 2021, at 30): Succumbed to congestive heart failure linked to obesity and addiction battles.
• Marvin “Jim Tom” Hedrick (Died September 2023, at 82): Lost his fight with kidney cancer after years as a charismatic storyteller.
• Roy Grooms: Remembered for his authentic backwoods approach.
• Popcorn Sutton: The foundational figure who inspired it all, dying by suicide before the show’s debut.

📊 Cast Summary Table