Discovery shines a light on the late Marvin “Popcorn” Sutton, the Appalachian moonshining legend, in a new special airing Tuesday. This isn’t just another episode of “Moonshiners;” it’s a deep dive into Sutton’s tumultuous relationship with the law. The special, “Crimes Against Popcorn Sutton,” examines the legal battles he faced for producing his untaxed liquor, a practice Sutton viewed as a family tradition rather than a criminal enterprise.
Popcorn Sutton became an almost mythical figure in the world of moonshining, known for his colorful personality and defiance of authority. He considered himself an outlaw, beholden to his own code, and felt persecuted by a government that didn’t understand his way of life. The special examines this clash of values, showing how Sutton’s actions placed him squarely in the government’s crosshairs.
While the special explores the historical context of moonshining in Appalachia, it also raises questions about the motivations of those who choose to live outside the law. Was Sutton a criminal or a folk hero upholding a dying tradition? “Moonshiners: Crime and Shine: Crimes Against Popcorn Sutton” airs Tuesday, March 18th at 8:00 PM ET/PT on Discovery.
