TLC Stops Airing 19 Kids and Counting After Josh Duggar's Confession
TLC has cancelled all episodes of its popular reality show 19 Kids and Counting after the family's oldest child Josh Duggar confessed to sexually abusing minors 12 years ago.
Duggar, now 27, had allegedly committed the acts between 2002 and 2003 but charges were then not filed against him. The issue resurfaced when In Touch magazine reported the allegations on Thursday, following which Duggar offered an apology.
"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 understood that if I continued down this wrong road that I would end up ruining my life. I sought forgiveness from those I had wronged and asked Christ to forgive me and come into my life. I would do anything to go back to those teen years and take different actions. In my life today, I am so very thankful for God's grace, mercy and redemption," he said on the family's Facebook page.
TLC confirmed to E! Online that will not air episodes and is troubled by the situation.
"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," TLC said in a statement.
The season 10 finale aired Tuesday and reruns of the episodes were planned for rest of the month. Reruns are expected to resume June 1.
