Josh Owens and Bill Canny, stars of the hit Discovery Channel show Moonshiners, have long captured the attention of fans with their adventurous and rebellious approach to the age-old Appalachian tradition of moonshining. Recently, the two celebrated a major milestone in their careers with a lively bash that brought together fans, friends, and fellow enthusiasts of the craft.
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The Journey to Moonshining Stardom
Josh Owens and Bill Canny have been fixtures on Moonshiners since its early seasons. The show, which premiered in 2011, documents the secretive and often risky process of making illegal moonshine in the Appalachian backwoods. Both Josh and Bill quickly became fan favorites, known not only for their distilling expertise but also for their entertaining dynamic, which ranged from friendly banter to serious disputes. Despite some tensions, the duo's strong bond and shared love for their craft made them stand out among the cast.
Josh Owens, a former motocross racer, brought a sense of high-octane energy to the show. His passion for moonshining is deeply rooted in the history and culture of his home region, and he often speaks about how much it means to carry on the legacy of moonshiners from generations past. In interviews, Josh has expressed his pride in continuing this time-honored tradition, noting that his involvement in the show allows him to do what he loves while honoring his heritage.
Bill Canny, on the other hand, brought a different set of skills to the partnership. A talented carpenter, Bill's ingenuity often came into play when building custom stills or devising new ways to outwit the authorities. Though he left the show in 2019, his contributions during his time on Moonshiners remain a significant part of the show's legacy. Bill and Josh, while occasionally at odds, maintained a working relationship that fans found compelling and authentic.
The Big Bash
In true moonshiner style, Josh and Bill decided to commemorate their achievements with a massive party that was equal parts celebration and tribute to the moonshining lifestyle. The event, which took place in Tennessee, was attended by fans, fellow moonshiners, and even some surprise musical acts. The atmosphere was electric, with the crowd enjoying moonshine tastings, live music, and the chance to meet their favorite shiners.
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The event wasn’t just a celebration of their personal success but also a nod to the broader moonshining community. For many attendees, the bash represented the spirit of Appalachian culture and the tight-knit nature of those who continue to keep the craft alive despite its illegal status in many areas. Josh, who has always been vocal about his love for the moonshining tradition, took the opportunity to thank fans for their continued support. He emphasized how much it means to him to be able to share this part of his life with such a passionate audience.
The Legacy of Moonshining
Josh and Bill’s journey on Moonshiners is more than just a TV success story. It’s a reflection of a centuries-old tradition that has survived against the odds. Moonshining, which dates back to the Prohibition era, has always been shrouded in secrecy, but the show has brought it into the mainstream, highlighting both the artistry and the risks involved in the process. For Josh, moonshining is not just a business—it’s a way of life that connects him to his roots.
While Bill has stepped back from the limelight in recent years, his influence on the show and on Josh’s work remains evident. The duo’s partnership, though no longer active, left a lasting mark on Moonshiners, and their milestone celebration was a testament to the impact they’ve had on fans and fellow distillers alike.
Looking Ahead
As for what’s next for Josh and Bill, the future looks bright. Josh continues to be involved in moonshining and has expanded his brand to include other ventures, such as his own line of coffee, Cutie Pie's Hair of the Dog, named after his beloved dog Cutie Pie. He also remains active in the racing community, another passion of his, proving that he’s far from slowing down.
Bill, though no longer on the show, has reportedly been focusing on his own projects and remains connected to the moonshining world through various distilling endeavors. Fans continue to follow both men’s journeys, eager to see what the next chapter holds for these two moonshining legends.
In the end, Josh and Bill’s big bash was more than just a party—it was a celebration of their contributions to an enduring American tradition. Their story is one of friendship, determination, and a shared passion for keeping the art of moonshining alive. Whether on TV or in real life, their impact on the moonshining community is undeniable, and their legacy will undoubtedly continue for years to come.
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