Watch Hatfields & McCoys: White Lightning

In 2013, History Channel premiered Hatfields & McCoys: White Lightning, a reality series based on the epic feud between the Hatfield and McCoy families. The show explored the history behind the famous rivalry, while also incorporating a modern twist by following the descendants of the feuding families as they work together to produce moonshine.

The show was set in rural Appalachia, where the Hatfield and McCoy clans had lived for generations. The feud between the two families originated in the late 19th century and was fueled by a range of factors, including economic competition, political differences, and personal grudges. It ultimately resulted in a series of violent clashes, including the infamous Hatfield-McCoy massacre, in which several members of the McCoy family were killed.

Despite the historical animosity between the two families, Hatfields & McCoys: White Lightning showed that their descendants were willing to put their differences aside and work together to create a successful business. The show followed the lives of three local moonshiners: Jim McCoy, Mark Hatfield, and "Chico" Hatfield. Despite their family histories, the three men collaborated to produce moonshine and build a thriving business.

The show's focus on the moonshine industry provided a unique twist on the story of the Hatfield and McCoy feud. Viewers were given a behind-the-scenes look at the stills and production process used to create the famous Appalachian liquor. However, the show also highlighted the dangers and illegalities of producing moonshine, underscoring the risks these modern-day moonshiners were taking in their pursuit of a profitable enterprise.

Hatfields & McCoys: White Lightning also provided an intimate look at the lives and personalities of the show's three main characters. Jim McCoy, a direct descendant of the McCoy family, was the leader of the group and the most experienced moonshiner. Mark Hatfield, a distant relative of the Hatfield family, was the youngest member of the group and brought a youthful energy and enthusiasm to the production process. "Chico" Hatfield, meanwhile, had a reputation as a wild card, often getting into trouble and causing mischief.

The show's production value was top-notch, with stunning shots of the Appalachian countryside and immersive scenes of the moonshining process. The show also provided historical context for the Hatfield and McCoy feud, offering insight into the complex web of economic, social, and political factors that fueled the rivalry.

Overall, Hatfields & McCoys: White Lightning was an engaging and entertaining show that brought the history of the infamous feud to life. The show's focus on the moonshine industry was an innovative twist on the story, and the characters were both relatable and larger-than-life. With beautiful visuals and compelling storytelling, this series was an excellent addition to History Channel's lineup and a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of Appalachia.

Hatfields & McCoys: White Lightning is a series that ran for 1 seasons (14 episodes) between August 1, 2013 and on History