Popcorn Sutton, born Marvin “Popcorn” Sutton, was an American moonshiner and bootlegger who gained significant notoriety in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. His career in illicit distillation began in the 1970s, when he started producing moonshine in the rural mountains of North Carolina, a region steeped in a long tradition of bootlegging. Sutton’s path to fame, however, was not immediate. He spent decades honing his craft, perfecting his recipes, and evading law enforcement, all while maintaining a low profile within his tight-knit community.

Sutton’s rise to national prominence commenced in the early 2000s, largely due to his participation in a documentary film titled “Shine: The Story of Marveen ‘Popcorn’ Sutton.” The film, released in 2005, provided an intimate glimpse into Sutton’s life and his craft, drawing widespread attention to the once-obscure moonshiner. Following the documentary’s release, Sutton became a celebrated figure in American pop culture, known for his folksy charm, colorful language, and unyielding commitment to his craft. His fame also led to several television appearances and a book deal, further cementing his place in the annals of American outlaw history.

Popcorn Sutton’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Popcorn Sutton’s net worth is estimated to be around $500,000. This figure is based on his earnings from his moonshine business and his posthumous book sales.

Career

Popcorn Sutton, born Marvin “Popcorn” Sutton, was an American moonshiner and distiller. He gained notoriety for his traditional moonshine-making techniques and was the subject of a 2008 documentary, “Popcorn Sutton: The Last Moonshiner.” Sutton operated his moonshine business in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina until his death in 2009.

Other Ventures

In addition to his moonshine business, Sutton also wrote a book titled “Me and My Likker: The Story of Popcorn Sutton.” The book, published posthumously, provides an inside look into Sutton’s life and moonshining techniques. It has become a popular read among moonshine enthusiasts and those interested in Appalachian culture.

Assets

Sutton’s assets primarily consisted of his moonshine stills, his property in the Appalachian Mountains, and his personal vehicle, a 1979 Ford truck. His property, located in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, was where he produced and sold his moonshine. After his death, his property was sold, and his stills were auctioned off.

Annual Income

Sutton’s annual income varied depending on the demand for his moonshine and the size of his batches. However, it’s estimated that in his peak years, he could make around $200,000 annually from his moonshine sales. This income was primarily from local sales and word-of-mouth marketing.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Popcorn Sutton

Frequently Asked Questions: Popcorn Sutton Net Worth

1. What was Popcorn Sutton’s net worth?

Popcorn Sutton’s net worth was estimated to be around $500,000.

2. How did Popcorn Sutton make his money?

Popcorn Sutton made his money primarily through his moonshining and bootlegging activities. He also sold his homemade whiskey and other spirits in his local community.

3. Was Popcorn Sutton a millionaire?

No, Popcorn Sutton was not a millionaire. His net worth was estimated to be around $500,000, which is significantly less than a million dollars.

4. What was Popcorn Sutton’s occupation?

Popcorn Sutton was a moonshiner and bootlegger. He was known for his illegal production and sale of whiskey and other spirits.

5. Where did Popcorn Sutton live?

Popcorn Sutton lived in Cocke County, Tennessee, in the United States.

6. When did Popcorn Sutton die?

Popcorn Sutton died on March 16, 2009.

7. How old was Popcorn Sutton when he died?

Popcorn Sutton was 62 years old when he died.

8. What was Popcorn Sutton’s real name?

Popcorn Sutton’s real name was Marvin “Popcorn” Sutton.

9. Was Popcorn Sutton married?

Yes, Popcorn Sutton was married. He was married to his wife, Pam, for many years.

10. Did Popcorn Sutton have any children?

Yes, Popcorn Sutton had two children, a son named Brandon and a daughter named Rebecca.