Key Points:
- Both Abby Smyers and Hannah Mooney remain alive and flourishing as we approach 2026.
- The speculation likely originated from misinterpretations, including the 2021 passing of Dan Smyers’ beloved rescue dog or confusion with individuals sharing similar names.
- Investigation reveals these false claims circulated through social platforms, while trustworthy sources verify the families remain in good health.
- Dan + Shay maintain an active music presence, with fresh releases and family celebrations marking recent positive developments.
Understanding the Rumors
Social platforms can rapidly spread false information, creating unnecessary worry among supporters. Online searches regarding supposed tragedies often lead to unfounded allegations, potentially mixed up with previous pet losses or completely unrelated situations.
For example, Dan Smyers and Abby experienced heartbreak in 2021 when their dog Missy passed away, which some may have misinterpreted. Additionally, Shay Mooney’s sister Gabby survived a life-threatening situation, though that’s an entirely different matter. A hiker named Hannah Moody sadly lost her life in 2025, but she has no connection to Hannah Mooney.
Current Family Status
Throughout December 2025, Abby Smyers remains deeply committed to animal welfare initiatives and regularly posts updates across her social channels. Hannah Mooney continues producing her podcast “Unexpected with Hannah Love” and recently gave birth to her fourth child with Shay in January 2025. Both families demonstrate happiness and wellness, with absolutely no indication of loss or hardship.
Dan + Shay’s Ongoing Success
The musical pair, celebrated for chart-toppers like “Tequila” and “10,000 Hours,” secured a fresh management partnership in November 2025 and hinted at a 2026 album release. They delivered holiday music this season, maintaining strong fan engagement.
For additional information regarding their personal journeys and professional accomplishments, explore the detailed overview that follows.
Dan + Shay have mesmerized country music enthusiasts since emerging with their harmonious blend and emotionally resonant songwriting. As Grammy-winning artists, they’ve achieved millions in sales and cultivated a devoted following attracted to their authentic narratives about love, life, and determination.
Recently, however, internet discussions have featured baseless speculation about their private lives, specifically allegations that one spouse had died. Let’s clarify definitively: both Abby Smyers and Hannah Mooney are completely alive, embracing family moments and championing their husbands’ flourishing careers.
This piece explores the duo’s path thoroughly, dismantling myths while honoring their successes and family connections. Whether you’ve followed them for years or you’re simply curious about the online buzz, here’s a comprehensive look at Dan + Shay, their marriages, and why those viral falsehoods amount to nothing but hoaxes.
| Attribute | Dan Smyers Details | Shay Mooney Details |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Daniel Thomas Smyers | James Shay Mooney |
| Also Known As / Nicknames | Dan (part of Dan + Shay) | Shay (part of Dan + Shay) |
| Date of Birth / Age | August 16, 1987 (age 38 as of 2025) | December 27, 1991 (age 34 as of 2025) |
| Birthplace / Hometown | Wexford, Pennsylvania | Natural Dam, Arkansas |
| Nationality | American | American |
| Primary Occupation | Singer-songwriter, musician | Singer-songwriter, musician |
| Other Roles | Producer, animal rescue advocate | Podcast guest, family-focused influencer |
| Genres / Fields | Country, pop-country | Country, pop-country |
| Active Years | 2008–present | 2012–present |
| Breakthrough Year | 2013 (with “19 You + Me”) | 2013 (with “19 You + Me”) |
| Notable Works | “Tequila,” “Speechless,” “10,000 Hours” (with Justin Bieber), albums like Where It All Began (2014), Bigger Houses (2023) | Same as duo, plus solo features in films like Father Stu (2022) |
| Awards & Honors | 3 Grammy Awards, multiple CMA and ACM Awards, including Vocal Duo of the Year | Same as duo |
| Relationship Status | Married to Abby Smyers since May 2017 | Married to Hannah Billingsley Mooney since October 2017 |
| Children | None (focus on rescue dogs) | Four sons: Asher (born 2017), Ames (born 2020), Abram (born 2023), and fourth child (born January 2025) |
| Education & Training | Attended Carnegie Mellon University (finance major), self-taught guitarist | Attended Union Christian Academy and Valley View High School; early music influences from family |
| Official Social Media Handles | @dansmyers (Instagram), @DanAndShay (shared X) | @shaymooney (Instagram), @DanAndShay (shared X) |
| Estimated Net Worth | Approximately $5 million (as of 2025) | Approximately $5 million (as of 2025) |
Early Life & Personal Background
Dan Smyers experienced childhood in a nurturing household in Wexford, Pennsylvania, where he initially learned guitar during sixth grade. His suburban environment cultivated a passion for music, merging rock elements with developing country influences.
Shay Mooney, conversely, originates from the tiny community of Natural Dam, Arkansas, with fewer than 500 residents. Raised in a tight-knit family, Shay’s initial musical exposure came through church and community performances, molding his soulful approach.
Both artists relocated to Nashville during their early twenties, attracted by the city’s dynamic music culture. Their lives intersected at a house gathering in 2012, resulting in immediate songwriting synergy that established Dan + Shay.
Education, Training & Formative Years
Dan completed his studies at North Allegheny Senior High School and subsequently enrolled at Carnegie Mellon University, studying finance before departing to chase music professionally. He refined his abilities through regional bands and independent performances in Pittsburgh. Shay finished at Union Christian Academy in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and temporarily pursued college before concentrating on music.
His developmental period included vocal instruction and initial solo career attempts, including a Voice audition. Together, they partnered with Warner Bros. Nashville in 2013 following merely one year of working together, representing their transformation from hopeful musicians to emerging talents.
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Career Milestones & Professional Growth
First Breakthrough
Dan + Shay’s inaugural single “19 You + Me” reached the charts in 2013, climbing to No. 7 on Billboard’s Country Airplay. Their album Where It All Began arrived in 2014, cementing their pop-country identity.
Growth Phase / Major Projects
The duo’s self-titled record in 2018 showcased hits like “Tequila” (quadruple platinum) and “Speechless.” They partnered with Justin Bieber on “10,000 Hours” in 2019, earning a Grammy for Best Country Duo/Group Performance.
Iconic Moments & Turning Points
In 2023, they unveiled Bigger Houses, contemplating personal evolution amid relationship challenges. A temporary break in 2025 provided family time, yet they returned with Christmas offerings like “Long Live Christmas” and previewed a 2026 album. They also served as coaches on The Voice Season 25.
Collaborations / Partnerships
Beyond Bieber, they’ve collaborated with Kelly Clarkson and Florida Georgia Line. In November 2025, they joined The Core Entertainment for management, indicating renewed energy.
Accolades & Critical Reception
With three Grammys, numerous CMA Vocal Duo of the Year honors, and exceeding 10 billion streams, reviewers commend their crossover success while acknowledging their progression from polished pop to genuine emotion.
Personal Growth, Challenges & Turning Points
The duo encountered exhaustion in 2022, nearly separating before renewing their commitment. Dan has candidly addressed mental health, while Shay transformed his body in 2023, shedding 50 pounds through lifestyle modifications. Speculation about marital problems was disproven as they emphasized family. For Dan, losing companions like Missy in 2021 underscored his dedication to animal welfare. Shay’s growing family, including baby No. 4 in 2025, represents meaningful milestones amid professional pressures.
Personal Life & Outside Work
Dan married Abby Law in 2017 following a proposal in Hawaii. They share enthusiasm for dogs, rescuing numerous senior animals and supporting organizations like Wags & Walks Nashville. No children currently, but their residence serves as a sanctuary for pets.
Shay wed Hannah Billingsley in 2017 on his family farm. They have four boys, with Hannah producing the podcast “Unexpected with Hannah Love,” where Shay frequently appears. The family embraces Nashville living, balancing music and child-rearing.
Both couples cherish privacy yet share moments on social media, countering rumors with uplifting content.
Wealth & Business Ventures
Dan + Shay’s combined wealth approximates $10 million in 2025, divided equally. Revenue sources include album transactions, streaming earnings (e.g., “Tequila” alone produces millions), concerts, and brand partnerships. They’ve acquired real estate and music production assets. Calculations derive from analyses similar to Forbes, though precise numbers fluctuate.
Unique Insights, Quotes & Lesser-Known Facts
Did you know? Dan proposed to Abby with their dogs present as witnesses, and Shay’s wedding featured a surprise performance by Rascal Flatts. Lesser-known: Dan performed in a rock group called Bonaventure before achieving country fame, and Shay once dreamed of becoming a rapper.
A cherished quote from Dan: “Music is about connection, and that’s what keeps us going.” Shay contributes, “Family first everything else follows.”
These details illuminate the duo’s humble character, distant from the drama of online hoaxes.
FAQs
What makes Dan + Shay famous?
Their fusion of country and pop, with successes like “Tequila” and Grammy victories, has established them as pillars in contemporary country music.
How did Dan + Shay get their start?
They connected at a Nashville gathering in 2012, composed a song that evening, and secured a record agreement within twelve months.
What are Dan + Shay’s biggest achievements?
Three Grammys, multiple platinum certifications, and coaching on The Voice, plus billions of streams.
Is Dan Smyers married?
Yes, to Abby Smyers since 2017; they concentrate on animal rescue together.
Is Shay Mooney married?
Yes, to Hannah Mooney since 2017; they have four children.
Where are Dan + Shay now?
As of 2025, they’ve emerged from a hiatus, delivering holiday music, and preparing a 2026 album.
Who are Dan and Shay married to?
Dan to Abby Smyers, Shay to Hannah Mooney both couples remain happily united.
Abby Smyers health update 2025?
She’s healthy and engaged in animal advocacy, with no concerns documented.
Hannah Mooney latest news?
She welcomed her fourth child in January 2025 and maintains her podcast.
Why people think a Dan and Shay wife died?
Likely confusion with pet deaths, family health incidents, or unrelated names; all rumors are completely false.
