'19 Kids and Counting' Canceled

07.16.2015

TLC has officially canceled one of its most successful reality franchises, 19 Kids and Counting.

The announcement comes two months after Josh Duggar admitted to molesting underage girls when he was a teenager.

Josh, one of the titular 19 Kids, admitted to molesting several girls including four of his sisters. The family came under fire in June when parents Jim Bob and Michelle downplayed the seriousness of his acts in an interview on Fox News.

"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," TLC said in a statement.

TLC will, however, air a documentary special with Jill and Jessa Duggar, two of Josh's sisters and victims, who will speak about the controversy.

"TLC has been especially concerned for the victims in this situation, including the Duggar family, and it is our hope that this effort will help those in need learn where to turn for information and help," said the network in a statement. TLC has been following the Duggar family in its 19 Kids and Counting series since 2008, including several specials like the wedding of Jill Duggar and Derick Dillard - a ratings hit for TLC.

Read more at Adweek.

Brief Take: This is the second show TLC has had to cancel for similar charges within the past year. Here Comes Honey Boo Boo joins the Duggar family on a list that has many asking what the network's screening process is for these families in the first place.

[Image courtesy of TLC]