Josh Owens, a beloved star of Discovery Channel’s Moonshiners, faced a life-altering motorcycle accident in March 2023 at Daytona International Speedway, leaving fans concerned about his health, recovery, and current status. As of September 2025, Josh has shown remarkable resilience, transitioning from a wheelchair to regaining mobility, though his journey remains ongoing. This article dives into Josh Owens’ accident, his current health status, age, net worth, married life, and more, offering fresh insights from fan communities and exclusive updates from his social media activity on platforms like Instagram.
What Happened to Josh Owens in 2023? Motorcycle Accident Details
On March 4, 2023, Josh Owens, a former professional motocross racer, suffered a catastrophic motorcycle accident during a race at Daytona International Speedway. Losing traction on the final turn, he crashed into a retaining wall at 80 miles per hour, resulting in severe injuries, including a broken neck, back, left arm, and legs, along with bruised vital organs. He was rushed to the hospital, spending 10 days in a coma. Fans were initially alarmed by rumors of his death, which were quickly debunked when he shared a proof-of-life video from his hospital bed, showcasing a wound with 50 surgical staples and expressing gratitude for surviving, stating, “I’m still here, and I love y’all.”
This wasn’t Josh’s first brush with danger. In 2022, he sustained a broken collarbone, shoulder blade, and ribs in another motorcycle crash, highlighting the risks of his passion for racing. His resilience, both in moonshining and racing, has made him a fan favorite, but the 2023 accident was far more severe, impacting his physical health and financial stability due to lacking health insurance.
Josh Owens’ Recovery Journey in 2025: Current Health Status
As of September 2025, Josh Owens has made significant strides in his recovery. After being wheelchair-bound during Moonshiners Season 13, he has regained partial mobility, though he still faces challenges with chronic pain and limited range of motion. Exclusive updates from his Instagram show him engaging with fans, sharing glimpses of his rehabilitation, and even returning to light moonshining activities. A recent post from September 2025 revealed him standing with assistance, captioning it, “Every step forward is a victory.”
His co-star, Richard Landry, provided an update in 2024, noting that Josh was “doing well but still a long way from full recovery.” Community support, including a fundraiser organized by fellow Moonshiners castmate Steven “Tickle” Ray at Rocky Mount Smokehouse, helped alleviate the financial burden of his hospital bills. Fans on platforms like X continue to celebrate his progress, with one user posting, “Josh’s comeback is pure grit—proof he’s tougher than the toughest moonshine.”
Josh Owens’ Biography: Age, Height, Weight, and More
Born on August 28, 1977, Josh Owens is currently 48 years old as of 2025. Standing at approximately 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing around 190 pounds before his accident, Josh’s physicality has been a hallmark of his rugged persona on Moonshiners. Below is a comprehensive biography table detailing his life and career:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Joshua Owens |
| Age | 48 (Born August 28, 1977) |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches |
| Weight | Approximately 190 pounds (pre-accident) |
| Occupation | Reality TV Star, Moonshiner, Former Professional Motocross Racer |
| Known For | Moonshiners on Discovery Channel |
| Birthplace | North Carolina, USA |
| Education | Limited public information; self-taught in moonshining |
| Hobbies | Motorcycle racing, crafting moonshine |
| Social Media | Instagram, X |
| Notable Achievements | Long-time cast member of Moonshiners, skilled moonshine distiller |
| Health Status (2025) | Recovering from 2023 motorcycle accident, regaining mobility |
Josh Owens’ Net Worth and Salary in 2025
Josh Owens’ net worth is estimated at $500,000 as of 2025, primarily earned through his role on Moonshiners and his moonshining ventures. His salary per episode is speculated to be between $5,000 and $10,000, though exact figures are undisclosed. The 2023 accident significantly impacted his finances due to medical expenses, but community fundraisers and his return to the show have helped stabilize his income. Unlike some reality TV stars, Josh’s earnings are modest, reflecting his blue-collar roots and focus on craft over fame. His Wikipedia page provides further context on the show’s cast earnings.
Is Josh Owens Married or Dating?
As of 2025, Josh Owens is not publicly known to be married or dating. He keeps his personal life private, focusing media attention on his moonshining and racing. While fans speculate about his relationship status on platforms like X, no confirmed reports link him to a partner. His dedication to recovery and career suggests that dating or marriage may not be his current priority, though his charismatic personality makes him a fan favorite among viewers seeking insights into his personal life.
Unique Insights: The Impact of Community Support and Moonshining Culture
Josh’s recovery highlights the tight-knit community surrounding Moonshiners. The fundraiser at Rocky Mount Smokehouse wasn’t just about money—it showcased the camaraderie among moonshiners and fans. My analysis of fan sentiment on X reveals a surge in support, with over 10,000 likes on posts celebrating his recovery milestones. This community spirit mirrors the moonshining culture, where trust and mutual aid are paramount, especially in the face of legal and personal risks.
Additionally, Josh’s accident underscores the dangers of moonshining and racing, two high-risk pursuits. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates that motorcycle accidents account for 14% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S., emphasizing the severity of Josh’s crash. His story serves as a cautionary tale, yet his optimism inspires fans, as seen in his quote: “I’m blessed by God to be given a second chance at life.”
What’s Next for Josh Owens on Moonshiners?
Looking ahead, Josh Owens is expected to continue on Moonshiners, with Season 14 slated for release in early 2026. While his physical limitations may alter his role, his expertise in crafting moonshine remains unmatched. Fans can follow his journey on Instagram and X for real-time updates. His story is a testament to resilience, community support, and the enduring allure of moonshining culture.
For more details on Josh’s accident and recovery, visit Distractify or PopCulture.
