The Changing Face of Moonshiners: Season 14 Brings Fresh Blood and Heartbreaking Goodbyes

The Discovery Channel’s long-running docu-series Moonshiners has been a staple for fans since its debut in 2011, offering an unfiltered glimpse into the high-stakes, clandestine world of Appalachian moonshine production. As of 2025, the show has entered its 15th season, which recently premiered in early November, building on the momentum of Season 14 (which aired from November 14, 2024, to March 2025). With evolving storylines, new challenges like intensified law enforcement scrutiny, and emotional tributes to fallen legends, the series continues to blend danger, tradition, and innovation. This comprehensive 2025 update breaks down the current cast, those who’ve departed, and the heartbreaking losses the Moonshiners family has endured.

🟢 Who Is Still on Moonshiners in 2025?

The core group of shiners remains strong, navigating legal hurdles, recipe experiments, and backwoods rivalries in the latest season.

Tim Smith A original cast member since Season 1, Tim has transitioned from underground outlaw to legitimate entrepreneur with his Climax Moonshine brand. He stays true to his heritage by mentoring up-and-coming distillers and tackling ambitious projects. Recent highlights include resurrecting forgotten family recipes and infusing shines with unique flavors like honey and herbs.

Steven Ray “Tickle” The beloved troublemaker rejoined full-time in Season 7 following legal setbacks. Tickle’s antics keep the show lively; in recent episodes, he’s constructed hidden “dead man’s” stills, revived historic bootlegging paths, and improvised shines from salvaged fruits. His chemistry with the crew is irreplaceable.

Mark Ramsey & Eric “Digger” Manes This inseparable pair, disciples of the iconic Popcorn Sutton, anchor the series with their expertise. In 2025, they’re contending with heightened raids while guiding novice crews, crafting exotic blends, and defending their turf in the mountains.

Josh Owens Surviving a devastating 2022 motorcycle accident, Josh has made a remarkable comeback. He’s collaborated on runs like peach-rye hybrids with Tickle and Henry, proving his resilience in group operations.

Mike Cockrell & Jerry Benson The adventurous duo from Mississippi and North Carolina keeps innovating. Recent seasons feature them engineering multi-proof stills and venturing into unconventional brews, such as spiked kombucha for off-grid communities.

Henry Law Now flying solo after the loss of his cousin Kenny, Henry upholds Virginia’s moonshining legacy with massive fruit brandy productions. He embodies the timeless ethos of Franklin County, focusing on tradition amid modern pressures.

Supporting Cast: Amanda Bryant, Richard & Craig Landry, Mark Rogers These recurring figures add depth, popping up in joint ventures, regional distillations, and storyline crossovers.

🔻 Who Left Moonshiners? – Departed Cast Members

Over the years, several shiners have exited for personal, health, or professional reasons:

• Jeff Waldroup (Seasons 2–7): Departed quietly with his son Lance.
• Lance Waldroup (Seasons 2–7): Stepped away amid personal struggles before his passing.
• Bill Canny (Seasons 2–6): Faded out, remembered for his traditional methods.
• Chico & Sandra (Seasons 3–7): Prioritized family over filming.
• Marvin “Jim Tom” Hedrick (Seasons 2–5, recurring): Retired as health declined with age.
• Tyler Wood (Seasons 3–5): Made a short impact but didn’t return.
• “Muddog” Mike Mitchell, “Shot” Brandon, Darlene: Early contributors who gradually phased out.
• J.B. Rader (Seasons 6–11): Popcorn Sutton’s former ally, now retired from the spotlight.

🕊️ In Memoriam – Moonshiners Cast Members Who Have Passed Away

The show has honored several icons who’ve left us, their legacies woven into episodes through tributes and flashbacks.

• Kenny Law (Died January 14, 2025, age 68): A master craftsman and Franklin County staple, Kenny passed peacefully surrounded by family. His wisdom and partnership with cousin Henry were highlights of Seasons 8–14.
• Lance Waldroup (Died March 2021, age 30): Tragically young loss; remembered for his energy and family ties.
• Marvin “Jim Tom” Hedrick (Died September 6, 2017, age 77): The charismatic storyteller and expert shiner whose folksy charm defined early seasons.
• Roy Grooms (Died February 21, 2018, age 71): An old-school mountain distiller whose authentic style left a mark.
• Popcorn Sutton (Died March 16, 2009, age 62): The pre-show legend whose rebellious spirit inspired the entire series.

📊 Cast Summary Table

In 2025, Moonshiners delivers more thrills, from explosive rivalries to heartfelt remembrances, all while preserving the outlaw essence of moonshine culture. With cast shake-ups like Kenny’s passing and potential new faces teased in Season 15, the show honors its roots amid ongoing risks and family bonds. Tune in to Discovery for the latest episodes and see how these shiners adapt to an ever-changing landscape.