The Duggar Family Breaks Their Silence On The Cancelling Of 'Counting On'

The Duggar family is breaking their silence on the abrupt cancelation of their long-running reality show, 'Counting On.'

According to a lengthy statement on the family's website, the family reminisced on how they were first contacted by a production company wanting to do a one-hour documentary on the logistics of raising 14 children. The journey "has been miraculous" the family says and even though it ended in a massive scandal, they believe it was an "amazing honor" to share their lives on screen.

"It is hard to believe that more than 17 years have passed since we were first contacted by a production company wanting to do a one-hour documentary about the logistics of raising 14 children. Our family has grown (and grown up!) before our eyes and on national television, and the journey has been miraculous—following God is an exciting adventure!" the statement began. 

It continued, "Over the years, some of our most treasured moments have been those when we met children across the country who are alive today because of our testimony that children are a blessing—a special gift from God—and that the only real hope for individuals and families is a close relationship with Jesus Christ."

As you know, Duggar's eldest son, Josh, was arrested and is facing charges of receiving and possessing material depicting the sexual abuse of children. According to reports, during the investigation, prosecutors claim they found approximately 200 illegal downloads on the father of six's computer which were the "worst of the worst" style images. It reportedly included sexual abuse of children from ages 18 months to 12 years old. Josh pleaded not guilty to the charges but is facing up to 40 years in prison.

The Duggar family still believes it was the right decision to put their family on television, saying, "Since we began filming so long ago, we’ve had the amazing honor to share our lives, our faith, and our story with you—including some of the most difficult and painful moments our family has ever faced. We are full of deep gratitude for the love shown to us and the prayers of so many who have sustained us both now and through the years."

They continued, "We look forward to all the new adventures and endeavors that may come our way, and with so many grown children and wonderful grandchildren, we know our love will only continue to multiply!"

It appears the Duggars might not be completely done with Hollywood, including this message in their statement, "So is this the We are forever grateful for our film crew and so many others behind the scenes who have become like family to us over the years? The wonderful experiences that filming has provided us will be treasured always, and we look forward to discovering what’s next for our family and sharing more with you along the way!"

TLC confirmed the cancellation of 'Counting On' on June 29 and has cut ties with the Duggar family completely.