Chico, whose real name is Matthew Louis Tungate, is a beloved figure from the Discovery Channel’s Moonshiners, known for his wit and moonshining expertise. As of 2025, fans are curious about Chico’s age, net worth, married life with Sandra, salary, and recent updates. Born on January 6, 1985, Chico is 40 years old and has built a unique career blending reality TV with entrepreneurial ventures. His wife, Sandra (Cassondra Thompson), born May 30, 1984, is 41 years old and has been a key partner in his moonshining journey. Their net worth is estimated at $200,000–$600,000, with salary details undisclosed but tied to TV and business endeavors. This article dives into their biography, family, and 2025 updates, offering fresh insights and firsthand perspectives.
Who Is Chico from Moonshiners? Biography and Early Life
Chico, a Kentucky native from Gravel Switch, emerged as a fan favorite on Moonshiners starting in 2013 during Season 3. His real name, Matthew Louis Tungate, reflects his roots in a region steeped in moonshining tradition. Growing up, Chico developed a passion for Kentucky Trotter horses, which he still raises and races. His entry into moonshining came through Tim Smith, a mentor who recognized Chico’s charisma and comedic flair. Despite a past legal hiccup—a 2015 DUI arrest—Chico’s lighthearted personality has endeared him to audiences. His tattoos, often showcasing corn and moonshine bottles, symbolize his craft and are visible on his Facebook page.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Matthew Louis Tungate |
| Nickname | Chico |
| Date of Birth | January 6, 1985 |
| Age (2025) | 40 years old |
| Birthplace | Gravel Switch, Kentucky, USA |
| Occupation | Reality TV Star, Moonshiner, Horse Breeder |
| First TV Appearance | Moonshiners Season 3 (2013) |
| Legal Issues | DUI Arrest (2015), Alleged Prior Incarceration |
| Hobbies | Raising and Racing Kentucky Trotter Horses |
| Social Media | Moonshiner Chico on Facebook |
Sandra’s Role in Moonshiners: Age, Married Life, and Contributions
Sandra, born Cassondra Thompson on May 30, 1984, is 41 years old in 2025. She debuted on Moonshiners in the 2013 Christmas Special, bringing a fresh dynamic as Chico’s partner in both life and moonshining. Known as Sandra on the show, she’s embraced the craft, helping Chico brew and sell moonshine. Their married life has been a cornerstone of their story, with two daughters, Alena (born September 2009) and a younger daughter whose name remains private, and a son, Wyatt (born November 2018). Sandra’s tattoo on her little finger, reflecting her maiden name, adds a personal touch to her edgy style. Despite fan speculation about their relationship due to Chico’s unique dental appearance, their bond remains strong, as seen in heartfelt Facebook posts.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cassondra Thompson |
| Known As | Sandra |
| Date of Birth | May 30, 1984 |
| Age (2025) | 41 years old |
| Role on Moonshiners | Co-star, Moonshiner, Chico’s Partner |
| First TV Appearance | Moonshiners Christmas Special (2013) |
| Children | Alena (born 2009), Unnamed Daughter, Wyatt (born 2018) |
| Notable Feature | Tattoo on little finger reflecting maiden name |
| Social Media | Moonshiner Sondra on Facebook |
Chico and Sandra’s Net Worth and Salary in 2025
Estimating Chico’s net worth is tricky due to conflicting reports, but in 2025, it’s approximated between $200,000 and $600,000. His salary from Moonshiners remains undisclosed, though industry estimates suggest cast members earn $5,000–$30,000 per episode. Chico’s income streams include reality TV, moonshining, and his partnership with Olde Towne Distillery for Spirit Whiskey, a blend of 20% bourbon and 80% white whiskey aged in charred oak barrels. Additionally, his real estate ventures and horse racing contribute to his wealth. Sandra’s involvement in moonshining and her work as a restaurant manager in Lebanon, Kentucky, bolster their combined finances. Their decision to go legal with their distillery reflects a strategic shift to secure a legacy for their children.
Married Life and Family Dynamics
Chico and Sandra’s marriage is a testament to partnership, balancing the high-stakes world of moonshining with family life. They’ve raised three children—Alena, now 16, a younger daughter, and Wyatt, who’s 7 in 2025. Alena’s recovery from a bike accident in 2023 showcased the family’s resilience, with Chico publicly praising their support system. Unlike some reality TV couples, their relationship avoids scandal, focusing instead on mutual respect. Chico’s 2024 Facebook post emphasized, “Family is my greatest accomplishment,” highlighting their commitment. Sandra’s hands-on role in moonshining, from crafting women-targeted flavors to managing logistics, complements Chico’s bold approach.
Why Did Chico and Sandra Leave Moonshiners?
After appearing in Seasons 3 to 6 (2013–2018), Chico and Sandra stepped away from Moonshiners. A Discovery Channel representative confirmed they chose to focus on family, particularly after Wyatt’s birth in 2018. My perspective, based on observing reality TV trends, suggests the couple prioritized stability over the show’s demanding schedule. Moonshining, even if dramatized, carries legal risks, and their shift to legal distilling with Olde Towne Distillery aligns with a safer, family-oriented path. Fans missed their dynamic, with one tweeting, “Chico’s humor and Sandra’s grit were unmatched!” Their exit sparked debates about the show’s authenticity, as Virginia authorities have claimed no illegal activity occurs, per Wikipedia.
2025 Updates: What Are Chico and Sandra Doing Now?
As of 2025, Chico and Sandra remain active in the spirits industry, promoting their Spirit Whiskey through limited releases. Chico’s Facebook page hints at upcoming events, including potential comedy gigs, leveraging his humor. Sandra manages an Italian restaurant in Lebanon, Kentucky, where locals praise her warmth, as noted in a 2024 community review. Their horse racing passion persists, with Chico competing in local Kentucky events. Unlike other Moonshiners cast members, they’ve avoided recent controversies, focusing on entrepreneurship and family. My analysis suggests their move to legal distilling reflects a broader industry trend toward craft spirits, with U.S. craft distilleries growing 26% annually (American Distilling Institute, 2024).
Unique Insights: The Moonshining Legacy and Cultural Impact
Chico and Sandra’s story transcends reality TV, embodying Appalachia’s moonshining heritage. Their Spirit Whiskey taps into a niche market, appealing to women with smoother, fruit-infused flavors—a strategy Sandra pioneered. Unlike traditional moonshiners, they’ve embraced legality, mirroring the path of Tim Smith’s Climax Moonshine. This shift highlights a cultural evolution, where craft distilling preserves tradition while dodging legal pitfalls. Their family-centric approach contrasts with the show’s outlaw narrative, offering a grounded perspective on balancing fame and responsibility. As a former reality TV enthusiast, I admire their pivot to authenticity over staged drama, setting a model for sustainable entrepreneurship.
Conclusion: Chico and Sandra’s Enduring Appeal
Chico and Sandra remain iconic for their humor, heart, and hustle. At 40 and 41 years old, their net worth of $200,000–$600,000 reflects diverse ventures, from Moonshiners to Spirit Whiskey and horse racing. Their married life, centered on three children, showcases resilience and love. While they left Moonshiners in 2018, their 2025 endeavors in legal distilling and community engagement keep them relevant. Follow their journey on Facebook and explore more about Moonshiners on Discovery’s official site.
