Duggar Family Issues Statement Following The Cancellation Of ’19 Kids And Counting’
The Duggar family has issued a statement following TLC’s official cancellation of their reality series 19 Kids and Counting.
The television network made the decision to cancel the fan-favorite television show about the Duggar family and their conservative values two months after their eldest son, Josh Duggar, was embroiled in an incestuous, molestation sex scandal.
“We appreciate the love, support, prayers and kindness extended to us by many of you. You have deeply touched our hearts and encouraged us, during this time, the family’s statement, posted to their website, read.
“Today, TLC announced that they will not be filming new episodes of 19 Kids and Counting.
“Years ago, when we were asked to film our first one hour documentary about the logistics of raising 14 children, we felt that it was an opportunity to share with the world that children are a blessing and a gift from God.
“We are so thankful for our film crew that has shown up at our house for over a decade. They have become like family to us. They have invested their time and energy into our lives and have been so loving and patient. We love and appreciate them so much!
“Over the last several years people have said to us, ‘We love your show!’ We have always responded, ‘It’s not a show, it’s our lives!’ Our desire in opening our home to the world is to share Bible principles that are the answers for life’s problems.
“With God’s grace and help Josh, our daughters and our entire family overcame a terrible situation, found healing and a way forward. We are so pleased with the wonderful adults they have all become.
“It is our prayer that the painful situation our family went through many years ago can point people toward faith in God and help others who also have lived through similar dark situations to find help, hope and healing, as well.
“We appreciate the love, support, prayers and kindness extended to us by many of you. You have deeply touched our hearts and encouraged us, during this time.
“God’s faithfulness and goodness to us, along with His abundant grace have given us strength and joy even in the most difficult days.
“We have committed to Him that in all things—difficulties or success, good times or bad—we will purpose to bring Him honor by staying true to our faith and our family.
“We look forward to working with TLC on this upcoming special documentary and hope that it is an encouragement to many.
“We know Who holds the future and are confident that He will work all things together for good.
“We love each of you and look forward to unfolding the future with peace and joy.
“With Gratefulness,
“Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar family”
As the Inquisitr previously reported, Josh Duggar has been in the spotlight since late May, when InTouch Magazine reported that he had sexually molested four of his sisters, including Jessa, Jill, and a family babysitter, when he was a teenager. Josh later admitted to fondling the breasts and genitals of the young girls, sometimes as they slept, when he was just 14-years-old.
Since the news broke, Josh has resigned from his position as a lobbyist with the Family Research Council, an organization that is dedicated to preserving the family values in America. TLC also immediately pulled the show. However, they are just now announcing that it has been cancelled and will not be renewed for another season.
The show, 19 Kids and Counting, follows Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, along with their 19 children and grandchildren in their Tontitown, Arkansas, home, and has been on the air since 2008 on TLC, Us Weekly reports. They aired the finale for their 10th season in May. While the show was cancelled, according to the Duggar family’s statement, there is hope that another series special will be aired.
Do you agree with TLC making the decision to cancel 19 Kids and Counting? Leave your comments below.
[Photo via Handout/Getty Images]
