 Media coverage of the movement has focused on popular leaders , such as Hensley , and the deaths of ministers by snakebite have received particular attention . Practitioners of snake handling continue to view Hensley as a great man . Kimbrough recorded a discussion with an advocate of snake handling who dismissed Hensley 's personal failings as slanderous fabrications . His advocacy , leadership , and – in particular – his personal charisma were important factors in the advancement of the movement . 
