The Discovery Channel’s hit docu-series Moonshiners has captivated fans since 2011, pulling back the curtain on the secretive, dangerous world of Appalachian backwoods distillers. Now in its 14th season (premiered December 12, 2024), the show continues to evolve with new faces, dramatic twists, and heartfelt tributes to legends lost. Here’s your comprehensive 2025 update on who’s still shining, who’s stepped away, and those we’ve sadly had to say goodbye to.
🟢 Who Is Still on Moonshiners in 2025?
Tim Smith
A founding cast member, Tim has come a long way—from outlaw to legal distillery owner of Climax Moonshine. Still loyal to his roots, Tim mentors other shiners and leads special projects. Season 14 highlights include recreating a lost family elixir and experimenting with honey-infused shine.
Steven Ray “Tickle”
Fan-favorite Tickle returned full-time in Season 7 after legal troubles. In Season 14, he built a “dead man’s” still, revived an old bootleg route, and turned overripe fruit into shine. He remains a mischievous yet essential part of the crew.
Mark Ramsey & Eric “Digger” Manes
The dynamic duo, both trained by the legendary Popcorn Sutton, are still key players. In 2025, they’re facing increased law enforcement pressure while mentoring outlaw crews, developing rare recipes, and protecting their territory.
Josh Owens
Despite a near-fatal motorcycle crash in 2022, Josh is back in action. By Season 14, he teamed with Tickle and Henry for a peach-rye run and remained active in collaborative moonshine operations.
Mike Cockrell & Jerry Benson
This Mississippi–North Carolina duo continues pushing boundaries. Season 14 saw them build a dual-proof still and take on wild new ventures like making hard kombucha for a hippie commune.
Henry & Kenny Law
Virginia cousins Henry and Kenny, known for large fruit brandy batches, remain consistent contributors. They represent the old-school values and deep tradition of moonshining in Franklin County.
Amanda Bryant, Richard & Craig Landry, Mark Rogers
These supporting cast members continue to play active roles in the show’s universe, appearing in collaborations and regional shine runs.
🔻 Who Left Moonshiners? – Departed Cast Members
- Jeff Waldroup (Seasons 2–7): Quietly stepped away alongside his son.
- Lance Waldroup (Seasons 2–7): Left the show due to personal challenges before his untimely death.
- Bill Canny (Seasons 2–6): Known for his old-school techniques, faded from the series.
- Chico & Sandra (Seasons 3–7): Moved on to focus on family life.
- Marvin “Jim Tom” Hedrick (Seasons 2–5, recurring later): A fan favorite who transitioned out as age and health caught up.
- Tyler Wood (Seasons 3–5): Briefly shined but did not return.
- Roy Grooms, “Muddog” Mike Mitchell, “Shot” Brandon, Darlene: All early players who made a mark but eventually moved on.
- J.B. Rader (Seasons 6–11): Former partner of Popcorn Sutton, retired from filming.
🕊️ In Memoriam – Moonshiners Cast Members Who Have Passed Away
- Kenny Law – Revered for his craftsmanship and wisdom.
- Lance Waldroup – Tragically passed away at 30.
- Marvin “Jim Tom” Hedrick – A legendary storyteller and master shiner.
- Roy Grooms – Known for his old-school mountain style.
- Popcorn Sutton – The myth, the legend, the man who inspired the show.
📊 Cast Summary Table
| Cast Member | Status | Seasons Active |
|---|---|---|
| Tim Smith | Current | 1–present |
| Tickle | Current | 1–present (gap 5–6) |
| Mark Ramsey | Current | 3–present |
| Digger Manes | Current | 4–present |
| Josh Owens | Current | 2–present |
| Mike Cockrell | Current | 6–present |
| Jerry Benson | Current | 9–present |
| Henry Law | Current | 8–present |
| Kenny Law | Deceased | 8–10 |
| Jeff & Lance Waldroup | Left / Deceased | 2–7 |
| Bill Canny | Left | 2–6 |
| Jim Tom Hedrick | Deceased | 2–10 (intermittent) |
| Popcorn Sutton | Deceased | Pre-show legend |
Moonshiners in 2025 remains a thrilling ride through moonshine culture—filled with outlaw tradition, family legacy, and the constant risk of discovery. Whether you’re tuning in for the shine or the shiners, this crew keeps the stills running and the stories flowing.
