The Duggars might have put on a brave face after The Learning Channel (TLC) cancelled their show "19 Kids and Counting," but a source close to the family has revealed that the Duggars actually feel devastated that they would no longer be able to share their faith to the world through television.
TLC cancelled the show last May 22 three days after a magazine published an article detailing claims that Josh Duggar, Jim Bob and Michelle's eldest son, sexually abused minors when he was just 14 years old. He reportedly molested five underage girls, including two of his younger sisters Jill Dillard and Jessa Seewald.
Josh then posted on Facebook an apparent admission of what he had done. He likewise resigned from the conservative Family Research Council, where he worked as a lobbyist.
A source who has worked closely with the Duggars told People magazine that the Duggar family is currently feeling "heartbroken" now that they have lost the platform to share their faith to the world.
"The Duggars want to return to TV because they truly believe it was part of God's plan for them to spread the Word about their faith," the source said.
"I think Jim Bob and Michelle honestly did expect people to just move on from this," the source added. "Their thinking is, they put this behind them ages ago, so why wouldn't the rest of the world?"
However, despite the cancellation of "19 Kids and Counting," TLC has teamed up with the family to create a new documentary tackling child abuse. The show will feature the Duggar sisters Jill and Jessa.
"We look forward to working with TLC on this upcoming special documentary and hope that it is an encouragement to many," Jim Bob and Michelle wrote on their blog. "We know Who holds the future and are confident that He will work all things together for good."
They also thanked all of their fans and supporters for extending love and kindness to them during their most difficult times, and pray that they will all move forward in peace and joy.
