The Luxurious Life of Moonshiner Steven Ray Tickle: From Illegal to Legal
Steven Ray Tickle, a beloved figure on the Discovery Channel’s hit series Moonshiners, has captivated audiences with his daring spirit and deep-rooted connection to the craft of moonshining. The show, which dives into the world of homemade alcohol production in the rugged Appalachian Mountains, introduced Steven as a natural-born storyteller and skilled distiller. But there’s much more to this TV star than what meets the eye—his journey from a small-town boy to a legal moonshine entrepreneur, TV personality, and family man is a story of grit, creativity, and unexpected twists.
From Southwest Virginia to the Spotlight
Born on November 30, 1976, in Southwest Carolina, Steven Ray Tickle grew up in Dry Fork, Virginia, in a close-knit but challenging family environment. Raised by his parents, Larry and Lois Tickle, alongside his three brothers, Steven faced hardships early on—most notably his father’s battle with paralysis, which ended with Larry’s passing at age 64. Despite these struggles, Steven’s childhood was filled with moments of joy and discovery. At Tunstall High School, he wasn’t just a student; he was an active athlete, playing football and baseball, and even joining the school band. These experiences shaped his knack for teamwork and creativity—traits that would later define his career.
Instead of pursuing college, Steven chose a hands-on path, apprenticing under a skilled carpenter after graduation. He honed his woodworking skills, a craft he’d carry throughout his life, even contributing to projects like building Clyde’s Restaurant near the Verizon Center in Washington, D.C. But it was the secretive art of moonshining, taught by friends and family in the hidden corners of Virginia, that truly captured his heart. For Steven, moonshining wasn’t just a craft—it was a link to his community’s traditions, blending hard work with a sense of adventure.
Moonshiners: A Breakout Star is Born
Steven Ray Tickle first stepped into the limelight on December 6, 2011, during the premiere episode of Moonshiners. Initially a guest star, his charm, humor, and expertise quickly made him a fan favorite, earning him a regular spot from the second season onward. The show, which follows the adventures of moonshine makers in Appalachia, became a massive hit, with rumors suggesting top cast members like Steven earned up to $30,000 per episode at the peak of its popularity, not counting their moonshine sales.
Steven’s on-screen presence didn’t go unnoticed. In 2013, producers gave him his own spin-off, Tickle, which ran for 13 episodes, showcasing his larger-than-life personality and distilling skills. Beyond Moonshiners, Steven has appeared in other TV shows and documentaries about moonshining, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the industry.
From Backwoods to Business: The Legend Series
While Moonshiners often portrays the illegal thrill of moonshining, Steven has taken his passion to a legitimate level. Since 2014, he’s partnered with Jim Tom Hedrick and Mark Rogers, fellow Moonshiners stars, to produce legal moonshine with the Sugarlands Distilling Company. Their product line, known as The Legend Series, offers a variety of flavors that tell the story of moonshine in their region. Each bottle is a nod to their heritage, transforming a once-clandestine craft into a celebrated, real-life adventure. This venture has not only legitimized Steven’s skills but also contributed significantly to his estimated $1 million net worth.
A Man of Many Talents
Steven’s talents extend far beyond moonshining and TV. His carpentry skills have taken him to notable projects, like the Clyde’s Restaurant build in D.C., showcasing his ability to create with his hands—whether it’s a wooden cabinet or a jar of moonshine. In 2013, he even considered a foray into politics, contemplating a run as an independent candidate against U.S. Representative Robert Hurt in Virginia’s fifth congressional district. During this time, Steven publicly criticized the Affordable Care Act, revealing a side of him that’s unafraid to speak his mind on issues beyond moonshining.
A Personal Journey: Love, Family, and Challenges
Steven Ray Tickle tends to keep his personal life private, but what we do know paints a picture of a devoted father and husband. He has a daughter, Daisy, from a previous marriage, and often shares her achievements with pride on social media. After his divorce, Steven’s love life saw its share of ups and downs. He dated a woman named Jossie, a relationship that seemed serious enough to earn his mother’s approval on Facebook, but it eventually fizzled out. A brief romance with Jenny Jen followed in 2016, but it was short-lived.
Steven’s luck in love turned around when he met Carol Anne, a bail bonds woman who pursued him for six years before he agreed to a date. Their connection blossomed, leading to a moonshine-themed wedding in 2019. Today, the couple frequently shares their happiness on social media, clearly enjoying life together.
Overcoming Legal Troubles
Steven’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks. In March 2013, he was arrested for public intoxication, and in 2015, he faced more serious charges for possessing a sawed-off shotgun. By February 1, 2016, he was convicted, receiving a three-year suspended sentence on March 24, 2016—meaning he could avoid jail by staying out of trouble. However, Steven violated his probation, resulting in a five-month jail sentence starting September 15, 2016. These incidents highlight the challenges he’s faced, but they also show his resilience in bouncing back and continuing to build his career.
Why Steven Ray Tickle Resonates with Fans
Steven Ray Tickle’s story is one of transformation—from a small-town boy with a love for sports and carpentry to a TV star and legal moonshine entrepreneur. His bold adventures, fun sense of humor, and deep knowledge of distilling have made him a standout on Moonshiners. But it’s his authenticity, rooted in family values and hard work, that truly connects with fans. Whether he’s crafting moonshine, building furniture, or navigating life’s challenges, Steven remains a testament to the power of turning passion into purpose.
What’s next for Steven Ray Tickle? With his knack for reinvention, one thing is certain: this moonshiner’s journey is far from over. Stay tuned to see where his adventures take him next!
