Key Takeaways
- Kenny Law, a third-generation distiller and beloved star of Discovery Channel’s Moonshiners, passed away on January 14, 2025, leaving behind a rich legacy in Franklin County’s moonshining tradition.
- Together with his cousin Henry Lee Law, Kenny successfully transitioned from illicit moonshining to legal distilling at Law’s Choice Distillery, preserving their family’s 60-year heritage while adapting to modern times.
- His authentic expertise and passion for the craft not only entertained millions through television but also helped spotlight and preserve an important piece of Appalachian cultural history.
Kenny Law, beloved for his appearances on the Discovery Channel’s long-running series Moonshiners, has passed away.
The Franklin County native, a third-generation distiller, di*d peacefully on January 14, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.
His demise marks the end of an era for fans of the show and for the moonshining tradition he so proudly carried on.
Kenny Law’s Legacy In Moonshining
Kenny Law was more than just a television personality; he was a custodian of Franklin County’s rich moonshining history.
Known as the “Moonshine Capital of the World,” Franklin County owes much of its reputation to families like the Laws, who have been distilling for over 60 years.
@moonshinerjoshowens my buddy Kenny Law Tells it like it is #kennylaw #Amoslaw Amoslaw #henrylaw #timsmith #tickel #me #henrylaw #countryboyscansurvive #moonshiners ♬ original sound – Moonshiner Josh Owens
Kenny and his cousin, Henry Lee Law, operated Law’s Choice Distillery, where they transitioned from outlaw moonshiners to legal distillers, honoring their family’s storied history.
Together, they kept alive the methods and stories passed down from their grandfather Owen Law, and Henry’s father, Amos Law, a legendary figure in the world of moonshine.
In an interview in 2020, Kenny recalled the scale of their operations during the heyday of moonshining:
“Back in the heyday, me and [Henry] made about as much liquor as anybody in the country or more, I would say.”
Via WFXR
The cousins’ efforts were not only a nod to their heritage but also a testament to the enduring appeal of moonshining in American culture.
Moonshiners: Bringing The Tradition To The Spotlight
Kenny’s rise to fame came with his role on Moonshiners, a Discovery Channel series that began in 2011.
The show follows Appalachian moonshiners as they continue a 200-year-old tradition, blending modern challenges with old-school ingenuity.
Kenny, alongside Henry, captivated audiences with his expertise and authenticity.
The show’s popularity brought a renewed interest in Franklin County’s moonshining legacy and shed light on its influence on American culture, particularly in the development of NASCAR during Prohibition.
Amanda Bryant, a fellow cast member of Moonshiners, shared a heartfelt tribute:
“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.”
Via Instagram
Honoring a Family Tradition
The Law family has long been synonymous with moonshine. Amos Law, Kenny’s mentor and Henry’s father began distilling at the age of 16 and grew Law’s Choice Distillery into a major operation.
Kenny and Henry inherited not just the business but also the passion and pride for their craft.
Their work, both on the show and off, paid homage to their ancestors while modernizing the family legacy.
Today, Law’s Choice Distillery stands as a symbol of perseverance and tradition, providing a legal outlet for the craftsmanship once practiced in secrecy.
An Outpouring Of Tributes
News of Kenny’s passing has sent waves through the Moonshiners community and beyond.
Fans, colleagues, and friends have taken to social media to express their grief and share fond memories.
The distillery released a statement, saying:
“With sorrow, we announce that Everett ‘Kenny’ Law passed away peacefully… surrounded by loved ones. His contributions to the art of distilling and his presence on Moonshiners will never be forgotten.”
Via Facebook
Funeral arrangements and further details about Kenny’s passing are yet to be announced.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- The Discovery Channel series Moonshiners follows individuals who allegedly craft moonshine in the Appalachian region, showcasing their supposed production methods and attempts to avoid law enforcement.
- The show presents dramatized accounts of moonshine-making across several states including Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, depicting both the technical aspects and lifestyle of its subjects.
- While the series portrays itself as documenting actual moonshine production, Virginia law enforcement officials have disputed its authenticity, stating that no illegal distilling takes place during filming.
