They’re two of the most recognizable faces in the Appalachian backwoods liquor scene. Eric “Digger” Manes and Mark Ramsey rose to fame for their roles in Discovery Channel’s long-running reality series Moonshiners, a show that blurred the line between illegal distilling and good old-fashioned storytelling. But despite years of apparent self-incrimination on national television, neither man has ever been arrested. Why?
Small-Town Roots, Big-Time Hobbies
Before the cameras ever rolled, both men led relatively quiet lives. Digger Manes, a licensed embalmer from Newport, Tennessee, developed a fascination with moonshine in his teens. By the time he turned 18, he was learning the craft from a local still builder with his father’s blessing. While others saw moonshining as a criminal act, Digger viewed it as a cultural tradition and a tribute to the elders of his town.
Mark Ramsey’s roots also trace deep into East Tennessee, where he was taught the art of distilling by local whiskey makers. Eventually, Mark became known for his expert still-building skills, earning the nickname “King of Tinkering.”
The Popcorn Sutton Legacy
Their paths crossed with legendary moonshiner Marvin “Popcorn” Sutton, but contrary to popular belief, it wasn’t Popcorn who taught Digger how to make moonshine. In fact, Digger helped Popcorn build his first 500-gallon still. Their partnership lasted about 20 years until Digger stepped away, citing concerns about raising a family without fear of arrest. Popcorn’s increasing desire for notoriety ultimately led to legal trouble and a tragic end—he died by suicide in 2009 to avoid prison.
From the Woods to the Small Screen
It was Mark who first entertained the idea of joining Moonshiners when McGill Entertainment began casting. Digger was hesitant but eventually agreed, believing the show wouldn’t last more than a season. Instead, their debut in Season 4 revitalized viewership. By Season 5, they were the fan-favorite duo, blending backwoods charm with real distilling knowledge.
In one memorable scene, the two men transported moonshine hidden in a funeral hearse, evoking Prohibition-era bootlegging tactics. Another storyline involved a high-profile deal with Ed King, guitarist of Lynyrd Skynyrd, who paid $30,000 for a premium gin batch.
Fact or Fiction?
Despite scenes showing them cooking moonshine, hauling gallons across state lines, and cutting deals under the radar, neither Mark nor Digger has ever faced charges. Why?
For starters, the show is filmed months before airing, giving plenty of time for legal loopholes. More importantly, many cast members are now licensed distillers. Mark and Digger even run a legal business, Sugarlands Distilling Co., producing spirits that are aboveboard.
Authorities also struggle to use televised footage as evidence. Without catching them in the act or having physical proof of illegal product, there’s no case. And as Digger once noted on-air, “The moment you light up a still, you’ve broken the law”—but if it’s just water in the still, there’s nothing to prosecute.
In 2012, Virginia authorities requested the show include a disclaimer. Today, each episode warns viewers not to attempt distilling at home and that illegal activity can lead to serious harm or jail time. That legal shield, along with the entertainment-driven nature of the show, helps explain the lack of real arrests.
Legacy in the Making
In later seasons, the duo adapted to modern tastes, experimenting with cherry vanilla moonshine mixed with sipping cream. They even began aging barrels for long-term investment, hoping to leave a legacy behind—be it for retirement or their families.
In one emotional episode, Popcorn’s widow, Pam Sutton, asked them to help locate a hidden stash of 60 gallons of Popcorn’s moonshine, rumored to be worth tens of thousands. Whether they found it remains unknown.
Entertainment or Evidence?
Ultimately, Moonshiners walks a fine line between dramatization and documentary. For fans, Mark and Digger are folk heroes, keeping a fading craft alive with wit, wisdom, and just enough mystery. For authorities, they’re not worth the chase.
No one knows how long the duo will keep brewing under the moonlight—or if they ever really were. But as long as viewers keep tuning in, Digger and Mark will be out there, somewhere in the hills, stirring up more than just mash.
