Moonshiners Star Digger Manes Reveals Leukemia Diagnosis in Season 13 Premiere
Moonshiners Star Digger Manes Reveals Leukemia Diagnosis in Season 13 PremiereFans rally around the beloved TV personality after emotional update following premiere episode
The Season 13 premiere of Moonshiners aired on Tuesday night on Discovery Channel, bringing with it not only the wild energy and outlaw spirit fans love—but also some heartbreaking news. One of the show’s most beloved stars, Eric “Digger” Manes, revealed that he has been diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, a rare blood disorder.
An Unexpected Revelation
Fans tuned in expecting more high-stakes adventures in illegal moonshine making, but what they got was something far more personal. In the closing moments of the premiere, Digger shared his health news, sending shockwaves through the fan community.
Digger later took to the Facebook page he shares with longtime friend and partner Mark Ramsey to provide more information and reassurance.
“The production company filmed Mark and myself when I gave him the news after I first received my diagnosis of leukemia,” Digger shared. “After more extensive tests, my definite diagnosis is chronic lymphocytic leukemia. It is not terminal.”
While he stressed that this form of leukemia is not life-threatening, he did add with his characteristic humor:
“It won’t kill me, but it’ll make me miserable until something else does.”
Behind the Scenes: No Final Cut
Digger also revealed that the cast does not have final cut over what gets aired in each episode. In fact, they don’t even see the episodes before fans do. The revelation about his condition came as a surprise even to him once the premiere aired on January 2, 2024.
“We don’t usually see episodes until the rest of the world does,” he said.
What’s Ahead in Season 13
While Digger’s health announcement was deeply emotional, the new season continues to focus on key developments in the moonshine world. Fan-favorite Steven Ray Tickle is making a bold push for the legalization of home distilling, shifting the show’s focus toward political and cultural reform.
Meanwhile, Mark Ramsey and Digger are working on plans to expand their business, even looking into launching a line of light beer—despite operating in legal gray areas. Injured moonshiner Josh Owens is also eyeing a return to the trade after recovering from severe racing injuries.
Fans Respond with Love and Support
Following his announcement, Digger expressed gratitude to fans for their prayers, kind messages, and unwavering support.
“Thank you for all the prayers, and please keep watching Moonshiners,” he said. “Shine on!”
Moonshiners airs Tuesday nights at 8/7c on the Discovery Channel.
💬 What Are Your Favorite Digger Moments?
Do you have a memory of Digger that makes you smile or laugh? Share your favorite Moonshiners moments below and send your best wishes to Digger in the comments.
