While TV network TLC is still contemplating its decision regarding the status of "19 Kids and Counting" after the big child molestation scandal against Josh Duggar broke out, rumors are claiming that the eldest Duggar child will be dropped from the show.
Sources told TMZ that the network is seriously considering several options regarding the status of the long-running reality show about Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar's family. According to the sources, TLC could either remove Josh in the cast or cancel the series completely.
The source also noted that if the eldest Duggar child will be dropped from the show, it will not materially affect the ratings that "19 Kids and Counting" is currently enjoying. Based on the researches done by TLC, fans were reportedly looking forward to seeing the weddings of two Duggar girls Jill and Jessa, as well as Jill's childbirth.
But the show can still be completely called off by the network if the advertisers will continue to draw off their support to the series. According to reports, General Mills already announced that they will stop sponsoring the show. If the trend continues, all the episodes beginning May 22 will never be aired by the network.
The child molestation controversy began when In Touch posted a police report stating that Josh was invited by the Springdale Police Department in Arkansas after several female minors, including some of his siblings, admitted to be sexually molested by the eldest Duggar son who was 14 years old at that time.
Josh admitted that he made a mistake when he was young, and apologized to his victims and the public in the family's official Facebook account.
"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," the 26-year-old Josh wrote. "I confessed this to my parents who took several steps to help me address the situation. We spoke with the authorities where I confessed my wrongdoing, and my parents arranged for me and those affected by my actions to receive counseling. I understood that if I continued down this wrong road that I would end up ruining my life."
Both Josh's parents and his pregnant wife Anna expressed their support for the Josh. He also resigned from his position at the Washington, DC-based Christian lobbyist organization Family Research Council at the wake of the scandal.
