William Hayden, born on June 24, 1965 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a former American gunsmith, television personality, and U.S. Marine who gained recognition as the star of the popular Discovery Channel reality series Sons of Guns. However, his life took a dark turn when he was convicted of sex crimes in 2017, ultimately leading to him receiving three life sentences and serving time at the Louisiana State Penitentiary.
Hayden's early childhood was marked by a traumatic event when he barely escaped a large house fire at the tender age of 4. Despite this harrowing experience, he showed an early interest in firearms and by the time he was 12, he had already begun building his own guns. Growing up, he immersed himself in reading about weapons, laying the foundation for his future career as a gunsmith.
In 1999, Hayden took a significant step by launching his business, Red Jacket Firearms, which would later become a prominent name in the firearms industry. Through his work, he showcased his passion for crafting and customizing firearms, gaining a loyal following of supporters and enthusiasts. Additionally, Hayden penned a book titled Sons of Guns: Straight-Shootin' Stories from the Star of the Hit Discovery Series, offering fans a glimpse into his life behind the cameras.
Aside from his professional endeavors, Hayden's personal life also garnered attention. He is married to Rachel Hayden, with whom he shares a daughter named Stephanie Hayden. Despite facing legal troubles and incarceration, his family has stood by his side, navigating the challenges together.
Throughout his career, Hayden drew comparisons to other reality stars like Todd Chrisley, showcasing their shared experiences in the entertainment industry. Despite the fame and success he achieved through Sons of Guns, his legacy became overshadowed by the legal issues that marred his reputation.
As he continues to serve his sentences at the Louisiana State Penitentiary, Hayden's story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of one's actions, reminding us of the complexities that exist beyond the spotlight of reality television. Despite the controversies that have plagued his life, Hayden's journey remains a testament to the highs and lows of fame, leaving a lasting impact on those who followed his rise and fall.