‘Moonshiners’ Star Kenny Law Passes Away at 68: A True Legend Remembered

The Moonshiners community and fans worldwide are mourning the loss of Everett “Kenny” Law, a beloved star of the Discovery Channel’s docuseries, who passed away on January 14, 2025, at the age of 68. Known for his larger-than-life personality and deep-rooted connection to the Appalachian moonshine tradition, Kenny’s death has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the legion of viewers who followed his journey on the show. His passing, attributed to a combination of heart problems, diabetes, and a recent blood infection, was announced by Law’s Choice Distillery, sparking an outpouring of tributes that celebrate his legacy as a third-generation moonshiner and a cherished figure.

On January 15, Law’s Choice Distillery shared the somber news via a Facebook post, stating, “With sorrow, we announce that Everett ‘Kenny’ Law passed away peacefully on January 14, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.” Accompanied by a photo of Kenny, the post expressed gratitude for the support from fans and promised to share his obituary soon. The announcement came from the distillery he co-operated with his cousin, Henry Lee Law, in Franklin County, Virginia, a region renowned as the “Moonshine Capital of the World.” Kenny’s cousin Henry provided further details to TMZ, revealing that Kenny died in a local hospital after battling multiple health issues, including heart trouble, a 2024 heart attack, diabetes, and a blood infection that led to his hospitalization in early January. Henry noted, “Kenny’s body just wore out after fighting both the infection and his underlying conditions.” No official cause of death has been disclosed, but the combination of these ailments proved insurmountable.

Kenny Law joined Moonshiners in its eighth season, becoming a fan favorite for his rebellious spirit, charm, and deep knowledge of moonshine production. The series, which premiered in 2011 and has run for 14 seasons, chronicles the lives of Appalachian distillers who carry on a 200-year-old tradition of crafting illegal moonshine, often under the cover of darkness. Kenny, a third-generation moonshiner following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, Owen Law, embodied the outlaw ethos of the craft. His obituary described him as “a true outlaw – rebellious, fun-loving, charming, and tough as nails, yet soft-hearted toward those he loved,” a portrayal that resonated with viewers who admired his authenticity and grit.

The Moonshiners official Facebook page paid tribute, stating, “We’re deeply saddened about Kenny Law’s passing. He was a treasured member of our Moonshiners community since season eight. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Shine on, Kenny.” Fellow cast member Amanda Bryant shared a heartfelt post on social media, writing, “Last Night We Lost a True Legend, Kenny Law from our Moonshiner Family. You will be dearly missed, it was an Honor to know you and call you my friend. Rest Easy Big Guy.” She added, “Prayers for the whole Law family in this time. They are dear friends of mine and my heart breaks for each of them. Rest In Peace Kenny Law Much Respect to you Always.” The tributes underscored Kenny’s impact, not only as a television personality but as a genuine friend and mentor within the tight-knit Moonshiners cast.

Kenny’s life was marked by resilience, earning him the nickname “cat with nine lives.” A notable incident from 1977, when he was 21, highlighted his toughness: a propane explosion during a moonshining operation set a building ablaze, and Kenny, despite severe burns, rushed back into the flames to save his father. After months of recovery at UVA Hospital, he returned to his moonshining roots, undeterred. Beyond Moonshiners, Kenny ran Law’s Choice Distillery with Henry, producing legal moonshine, and operated a roofing company in Rocky Mount, Virginia, for two decades. He also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in the 1990s, installing roofs, and enjoyed “picking,” restoring, and reselling antiques. His obituary noted his love for meeting fans in person, often commenting on their kindness and support.

Kenny’s proudest accomplishment was his daughter, Kenzie Wright, whom he called his “pride and joy.” He is survived by Kenzie and her husband, Nathan Wright; grandsons, Atlas and Fox Wright; brothers, David and Ronnie Law; cousin, Henry Lee Law, who was like a brother; and numerous aunts, nephews, nieces, and cousins. Kenzie took to Facebook to express her grief, marveling at the national attention her father received while warning fans about scammers falsely claiming to livestream his funeral. A visitation was held on January 17 at Flora Funeral Service in Rocky Mount, Virginia, with funeral services conducted the following day at Flora Funeral Chapel, followed by interment at Henry Fork Church Cemetery.

The loss of Kenny Law follows other recent tragedies in the Moonshiners community, including the death of Jim Tom Hedrick in September 2023 and health scares for cast members like Troy Halsey. Kenny’s passing has prompted reflection on the physical toll of the moonshining lifestyle and the personal sacrifices of those who preserve this cultural tradition. Fans have flooded social media with condolences, sharing memories of Kenny’s infectious smile and storytelling on the show. As the Moonshiners community grapples with this loss, Kenny’s legacy as a true moonshine legend endures, his spirit captured in the phrase “Shine on, Kenny.”