Although TLC has pulled 19 Kids and Counting from its rerun lineup, producers are considering whether to cancel the show altogether or continue on without Josh Duggar.
In the wake of Duggar’s molestation confession and apology, TLC is weighing the options of cancelling the show outright or going forward without the eldest son of Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, reports TMZ . According to network sources, the show can continue to be a success without Josh because it is actually daughters Jill and Jessa who are driving the ratings. Since General Mills has already bailed on the network, producers are concerned if they cancel the show entirely, other big advertisers will follow suit.
The network released a statement Friday to E! News announcing it was pulling 19 Kids and Counting from its scheduled lineup.
“Effective immediately, TLC has pulled all episodes of 19 Kids and Counting currently from the air. We are deeply saddened and troubled by this heartbreaking situation, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family and victims at this difficult time.”
The 19 Kids and Counting season finale aired on Tuesday. Reruns of the show were scheduled to air at various times between May 27 and May 29. Those reruns have since been replaced by other TLC shows. According to E! News , however, reruns are slated to once again begin running June 1.
The network pulling the show from its scheduled lineup came one day after Josh Duggar issued a public confession and apology for sexually molesting underage girls, including some of his sisters, as a teenager. In his Facebook statement, the 19 Kids star said he had acted “inexcusably,” but had sought forgiveness.
“Twelve years ago, as a young teenager I acted inexcusably for which I am extremely sorry and deeply regret. I hurt others, including my family and close friends. I confessed this to my parents who took several steps to help me address the situation. We spoke with the authorities where I confessed my wrongdoing and my parents arranged for me and those affected by my actions to receive counseling. I sought forgiveness from those I had wronged and asked Christ to forgive me and come into my life.”
If TLC decides to go forward with 19 Kids and Counting , even without Josh Duggar, Mama June Shannon of Here Comes Honey Boo Boo fame promises to take legal action against the network, as the Inquisitr previously reported, due to discrepancies in how the network treated both families amidst their respective sexual molestation scandals.
[Image via Facebook ]