Josh Owens: The Moonshiner’s Journey from Triumph to Tragedy – What’s Next for the Beloved Star?

Josh Owens first captured the hearts of viewers when he joined the cast of “Moonshiners” in 2012.

Born in Columbus, North Carolina, in August 1977, he quickly became one of the youngest and most charismatic figures on the show.

Unlike many of his fellow cast members who were raised in the moonshining tradition, Josh began learning the craft of distilling in his early 30s.

He was mentored by the late Barney Barnwell, a former cast member who played a significant role in shaping Josh’s moonshining skills.

Before his passing, Barney entrusted Josh with the responsibility of maintaining his legacy by building an underground still, a task that Josh has honored ever since.

Following Barney’s death, the production team of “Moonshiners” invited Josh to join the cast, marking a significant turning point in his life.

Alongside his passion for distilling, Josh is also an avid motocross racer and operates a successful landscaping business called Tree and Yardbusters, which focuses on maintaining clients’ gardens and outdoor spaces.

His dedication to his family is evident, as he frequently shares moments with his daughter on social media.

Although he was previously in a long-term relationship with her mother, they parted ways amicably.

Josh later found love with Amber Lynn Gabrick, but that relationship also ended, leaving him to focus on co-parenting their beloved pet dog.

Despite his rising fame, Josh’s journey has not been without its challenges.

During the tenth season of “Moonshiners,” rumors circulated regarding his arrest, which turned out to be unfounded.

Instead, he faced trouble with his friend’s landlord after mistakenly setting up distilling equipment in a building he believed was owned by his friend.

This incident highlighted a pattern of careless mistakes, as Josh had previously experienced two significant accidents while trying to produce moonshine, including burning down his house and trailer.

In March 2018, Josh faced another life-altering event when he suffered a horrific motorcycle accident involving his cherished Harley-Davidson.

A tire blowout caused him to crash into a wall, resulting in severe injuries, including a torn rotator cuff, a punctured lung, and multiple fractures.

At the time of the accident, Josh did not have health insurance, which compounded his difficulties.

He later claimed that he was sent home from Halifax Medical Center in Daytona before receiving adequate treatment for his injuries, a statement that the hospital administration later disputed.

The aftermath of the accident left Josh grappling with mobility issues and chronic pain, significantly impacting his quality of life.

Recently, Josh made headlines again due to an incident at the Daytona International Speedway during a racing event.

Reports about the severity of his injuries varied widely, with some news outlets describing the crash as deadly, while others confirmed that he was hospitalized but in stable condition.

A Facebook page created by someone close to Josh has been soliciting prayers and updates about his health, indicating that fans remain deeply concerned for his well-being.

In addition to his personal challenges, Josh’s journey on “Moonshiners” has been marked by ongoing scrutiny regarding the show’s authenticity.

The Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control has previously stated that no illegal activities are genuinely depicted in the series, leading to calls for disclaimers about the dramatized content.

Despite this, “Moonshiners” continues to enjoy a loyal fanbase, with cast members like Eric Maines, Stephen Ray Tickle, Tim Smith, Josh Owens, and Mark Ramsey remaining prominent figures in the moonshining community.

As of late 2023, Josh Owens has been focusing on his recovery and rebuilding his life after the various challenges he has faced.

He has expressed gratitude for the support of his fans, who have rallied around him during difficult times.

His passion for moonshining remains strong, and he continues to honor the legacy of his mentor, Barney Barnwell, by sharing his knowledge and skills with others in the community.

In addition to his work on “Moonshiners,” Josh has been involved in various promotional events and appearances, connecting with fans and sharing his story.

He has also been active on social media, where he posts updates about his life, his daughter, and his ongoing recovery process.

Despite the setbacks, Josh’s resilience and determination to overcome obstacles have inspired many, and he remains a beloved figure in the moonshining world.

Looking ahead, fans are hopeful for Josh’s return to “Moonshiners” and his continued success in both his distilling endeavors and personal life.

His journey serves as a testament to the challenges and triumphs that come with pursuing one’s passions, and many are eager to see what the future holds for this charismatic moonshiner.

As he navigates the complexities of life, Josh Owens continues to embody the spirit of resilience and dedication that has made him a standout star on the show and in the hearts of viewers everywhere.