Moonshiners’ Digger Manes Vows to Keep Fighting Amid Health Concerns.
Moonshiners’ Digger Manes Clarifies Health Battle After Emotional Season Premiere
The new season of Moonshiners kicked off with a dramatic and emotional revelation — longtime star Digger Manes disclosed to his business partner and close friend, Mark Ramsey, that he was facing a rare blood disorder. His words during the season premiere hinted that his time might be short, leaving viewers shocked and worried about his future.
But just days later, Digger took to Facebook to set the record straight. While he confirmed that he has been diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) — a type of leukemia — he reassured fans that it is not the terminal condition that many feared.
From On-Screen Shock to Real-Life Clarity
In the Moonshiners season opener, Digger’s conversation with Mark carried a heavy tone. He expressed a desire to leave a legacy before it was “too late” and implied that his time was running out. Naturally, the scene triggered an outpouring of concern from fans who assumed the worst.
Behind the scenes, however, the reality was somewhat different. Digger later explained that he had no creative control over the final edit of the episode and was unaware it would be cut in a way that suggested his condition was immediately life-threatening.
On Facebook, he shared a heartfelt update:
“I didn’t have any say in how the premiere episode was edited, and I didn’t know it would make it sound like I’m about to die. That’s not the case. My diagnosis is serious, but it’s not a death sentence.”
Understanding CLL
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia is a slow-progressing form of blood cancer that affects a type of white blood cell called lymphocytes. While it is not considered curable, many patients live with the disease for years — sometimes decades — with proper management.
Digger was quick to point out that while the condition won’t directly take his life in the immediate future, it will cause ongoing health challenges. “It’ll make me miserable until I die from something else,” he said with his trademark mix of honesty and grit.
Despite this, the Tennessee moonshiner is determined to keep moving forward. He and Mark have big plans to expand their distilling business across the state this year.
An Outpouring of Fan Support
If the season premiere worried Moonshiners fans, Digger’s Facebook post became a rallying point for love and encouragement. Within hours, thousands of comments poured in from viewers around the world, each offering their prayers, well-wishes, and gratitude for his transparency.
The post received more than 5,500 comments and 670 shares in less than a day — a clear sign of how deeply Digger is loved by the Moonshiners community.
One fan wrote:
“Thanks for the post elaborating — we’ve been worrying since we heard tonight!”
Another added:
“My heart actually sank a bit when I saw the show. Thanks for the update. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.”
Some fans shared deeply personal messages:
“Digger, we love you so much! When I heard you say you were sick, my heart broke and I started crying… I’m sure there are a lot of people who would love to help you if you need it. Everybody is behind you, brother.”
Others took comfort in knowing the reality was less dire than what the premiere suggested:
“I was truly relieved to read your statement and know you’re not leaving us to be with Popcorn Sutton and Jim Tom anytime soon.”
A Fighter’s Spirit
For Digger, this wave of support has been both humbling and motivating. He closed his Facebook message with a simple request to his fans:
“Shine on.”
It’s a phrase that encapsulates not just his moonshining heritage but his determination to keep living fully despite his diagnosis.
The Road Ahead
While Digger’s future will involve managing his health carefully, he shows no signs of slowing down. Fans can expect to see him and Mark navigating both business expansions and personal challenges on this season of Moonshiners.
And although the season premiere may have given viewers a scare, Digger’s update serves as a reminder of the importance of hearing directly from the source — and of how much the Moonshiners family, both cast and fans, truly care for one another.
For now, Digger remains focused on his craft, his business, and his loyal viewers. His message to them is clear: the fight isn’t over, and there’s still plenty of good whiskey to make.
You can watch Moonshiners every Tuesday night on Discovery at 8/7c, and fans are encouraged to continue sending their love and support to Digger as he faces this next chapter with courage and humor.
