What really happened to the Moonshiners you thought you knew? Discover the shocking paths their lives took off-camera.

Since its debut in December 2011, Moonshiners has been one of Discovery Channel’s most talked-about series. Produced by Magilla Entertainment, the reality-style docudrama captures the daily struggles of Appalachian locals who risk it all to distill and distribute moonshine, a potent homemade alcohol rooted deeply in regional tradition.

Filmed in Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, and the Carolinas, the show depicts its cast evading law enforcement while navigating the challenges of an underground trade. While state officials have questioned its authenticity—at one point requesting disclaimers labeling it a fictional recreation—producers continue to insist the series offers a truthful look into moonshining culture.

The program’s popularity has soared, drawing millions of viewers per season and spawning several spin-offs, including Moonshiners: Master Distiller in 2020.

Stars Who Shaped the Series

Over more than a decade, Moonshiners has featured a rotating cast of colorful personalities. Some found success beyond the series, others faded from public view, and a few faced tragedy.

• Stephen Ray Tickle – Known simply as “Tickle,” he became a breakout fan favorite. After leaving in 2017, he starred briefly in his own spin-off before running into legal trouble unrelated to moonshining. Arrests for public intoxication and weapons charges placed him behind bars, though he has since gone legitimate, securing a license to distill and marrying his wife Carol Anne in 2019.

• Jeff and Lance Waldroup – Jeff, a seventh-generation distiller, joined in Season 2 alongside his son Lance. Their departure sparked rumors of financial troubles, later confirmed when the family began selling belongings online. Tragedy struck in February 2021 when Lance, just 30 years old, was found dead at home. His cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.

• Jim Tom Hedrick – Revered as one of Appalachia’s greatest distillers and storytellers, Jim Tom retired after Season 6. Now in his 80s, he continues to lend his name and expertise to Sugarlands Distillery, ensuring his recipes live on legally.

• Josh Owens and Bill Canny – The duo became known for their constant feuding, but also for producing high-quality moonshine. After their partnership collapsed, both left the show. Owens later survived a serious motorcycle accident in 2019, fueling false rumors of his death.

• Chico and Sondra (Matthew Lewis Tungate and Cassandra Thompson) – The Kentucky couple gained fans with their fearless drive but departed after Season 6, reportedly to focus on family life. Chico also breeds and races horses.

Legacy of a Risky Craft

While many cast members left under uncertain circumstances, the series continues to draw viewers with new faces carrying on the tradition. Despite the dangers of their craft and lingering questions about authenticity, Moonshiners remains one of Discovery Channel’s longest-running successes—proof that the allure of outlaw culture still resonates with audiences.