In 2020, rumors began circulating online that Hannah Shay, the wife of country music star Shay Mooney (one half of the Grammy-winning duo Dan + Shay), had tragically passed away. These false claims spread rapidly across social media, causing confusion and concern among fans.
If you’ve stumbled upon this rumor and are wondering whether there’s any truth to it, this blog post will clarify the facts, debunk the misinformation, and provide insight into the real lives of Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney, including their personal relationships and how they’ve handled such rumors.
Where Did the Rumor About Shay Mooney’s Wife’s Death Come From?
Like many celebrity death hoaxes, the false claim that Hannah Shay died in 2020 appears to have originated from unreliable sources or clickbait websites looking to generate traffic. There was never any official statement from Shay Mooney, Dan Smyers, or their representatives confirming such tragic news.
Hannah Shay (née Knable) has been active on social media throughout the years, frequently sharing updates about her family life with Shay and their children. The couple has three sons together: Asher James Mooney (born 2017), Ames Alexander Mooney (born 2020), and Abram Shay Mooney (born 2022).
Despite the lack of evidence supporting the rumor, it gained traction due to:
- Misinformation on social media – Fake news spreads quickly, especially when it involves high-profile celebrities.
- Lack of public appearances – Some fans speculated when Hannah wasn’t seen in posts for a short period.
- Clickbait articles – Some websites published misleading headlines for engagement.
Who Is Hannah Shay? A Look Into Shay Mooney’s Wife
Hannah Shay (née Knable) is not just the wife of a famous country singer—she’s a supportive partner, mother, and a strong presence in Shay’s life. Here’s what we know about her:
Early Life & Marriage to Shay Mooney
- Hannah was born Hannah Knable and grew up in Arkansas.
- She met Shay Mooney in their hometown before he rose to fame.
- The couple married in October 2017 in a beautiful ceremony in Nashville.
Motherhood & Family Life
Hannah and Shay have welcomed three children together:
- Asher James Mooney (born May 2017)
- Ames Alexander Mooney (born April 2020)
- Abram Shay Mooney (born July 2022)
Hannah often shares glimpses of their family life on Instagram, showcasing their adventures, milestones, and the joys of parenting.
Supporting Shay’s Career
As Shay’s career with Dan + Shay skyrocketed, Hannah remained a constant source of support. From attending award shows to celebrating his successes, she has been by his side through it all.
How Dan + Shay Responded to False Rumors
While the duo has not directly addressed the death hoax, they have consistently shared updates about their personal lives, indirectly debunking the false claims.
- Social Media Activity: Both Shay and Hannah have remained active on Instagram, posting family photos and updates.
- Public Appearances: The couple has been seen together at events, further proving that the rumors were baseless.
- Focus on Music & Family: Instead of engaging with gossip, Dan + Shay have focused on their music and growing families.
Why Do Celebrity Death Hoaxes Happen?
The spread of false celebrity death rumors is unfortunately common. Some reasons include:
- Clickbait for website traffic – Fake news generates ad revenue.
- Social media algorithms – Misinformation spreads faster than corrections.
- Fans’ emotional attachment – People react strongly to shocking news about their favorite stars.
Other celebrities who have faced similar hoaxes include Paul McCartney, Morgan Freeman, and Jackie Chan.
Dan + Shay in 2020: What Really Happened
While Hannah Shay did not pass away in 2020, it was still a significant year for the couple. Here’s what actually happened:
The Birth of Their Second Child
In April 2020, Hannah gave birth to their second son, Ames Alexander Mooney, during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Career Milestones
- Dan + Shay won Grammy Awards for “10,000 Hours” (with Justin Bieber).
- They continued releasing music and engaging with fans virtually.
Family Life Amidst the Pandemic
Like many families, the Shay-Mooney household adjusted to lockdowns, with Shay spending more time at home with Hannah and their children.
How to Spot Fake Celebrity Death News
To avoid falling for hoaxes in the future, here are some tips:
- Check official sources – Look for statements from the celebrity or their verified social media.
- Avoid sketchy websites – Stick to reputable news outlets.
- Look for recent activity – If the celebrity has posted recently, the rumor is likely false.
- Be skeptical of shocking headlines – Sensational claims are often fabricated.
Conclusion: Hannah Shay Is Alive and Well
Despite the false rumors, Hannah Shay is alive, healthy, and thriving alongside her husband, Shay Mooney, and their three children. The couple continues to share their journey with fans, proving that the 2020 death hoax was entirely unfounded.
