TLC for the longest time has kept mum and remained noncommittal concerning the return or dismissal of their longest running reality show, "19 Kids and Counting," after Josh Duggar's molestation scandal broke. However, TLC's announcement on Thursday ended the remaining hope of the Duggars that their show will be aired again.
TLC exclusively told The Associated Press that there will be no more 11th season for the show that features the Duggars.
"We spent the past month and a half month in thoughtful consideration about what is the best way forward here," said Marjorie Kaplan, Group President of TLC, Animal Planet and Velocity networks.
In an official statement released by TLC on their website, they announced, "After thoughtful consideration, TLC and the Duggar family have decided to not move forward with 19 Kids and Counting. The show will no longer appear on the air."
It took months for the network to decide, and obviously they were disturbed by how Josh's molestation scandal affected the show's reputation. In the same statement, the network revealed, "The recent attention around the Duggars has sparked a critical and important conversation about child protection."
As for the Duggars, Jim Bob and Michelle released a statement on the same day, saying that they are definitely affected by TLC's decision, but they remain positive. The show has been one of the family's sources of income for years. Aside from that, the crew who has filmed their show for over a decade has become a family to them. The family also found support and inspiration from the people who have watched and loved their show.
"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."
The family added that they are confident that all things will work together for good.
In a more positive note, TLC will be working on a child abuse documentary. Jill and Jessa Duggar, the two of Josh's four sisters whom he touched inappropriately, will be featured in the said show along with other victims, survivors and families who have gone through the same struggle.
In the said special documentary, TLC is partnering with two prominent child protection agencies, Darkness to Light and RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network). The network is looking forward to a long-term partnership with the said organizations.
According to The Associated Press, Kaplan acknowledged that the show they just cancelled is a hit. However, the network believes that they have some other great shows currently aired and "on the pipeline." Kaplan stressed, "TLC is faithfully committed to the children's ongoing comfort and well-being ."
