Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar have issued a statement ahead of Prime Video’s June 2 release of the docuseries Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets.
“The recent ‘documentary’ that talks about our family is sad because in it we see the media and those with ill intentions hurting people we love,” the statement said in part. “Like other families, ours too has experienced the joys and heartbreaks of life, just in a very public format.”
The four-part series focuses on the Duggar family and their ties to the controversial religion Institute of Basic Life Principles (IBLP). Jill Dillard, 32, along with her husband Derick, are featured in the docuseries.
It’s the first time Jill has gone on the record to tell her own story about growing up as a Duggar.
The Duggar family was first introduced to the world in 2008 when they starred on TLC’s 17 Kids and Counting. As their family grew, so did the name of the television series ending with 19 Kids and Counting before its cancellation in 2015.
The series was cancelled after the Duggar’s eldest son Josh was accused of molesting five girls, including some of his sisters. He publicly apologized and checked himself into a rehab facility.
In May 2022, Josh was sentenced to more than 12 years in prison after he was found guilty of receiving and possessing child pornography.
Despite the negative press in recent years against the Duggars, Jim Bob and Michelle have defended themselves and their children.
“This ‘documentary’ paints so much and so many in a derogatory and sensationalized way because sadly that’s the direction of entertainment these days,” their statement continued.
“We have always believed that the best chance to repair damaged relationships, or to reconcile differences, is through love in a private setting. We love every member of our family and will continue to do all we can to have a good relationship with each one.”
“Through both the triumphs and the trials we have clung to our faith all the more and discovered that through the love and grace of Jesus, we find strength, comfort, and purpose.”
Some people love the Duggar family, while others love to watch their downfall. Will you be watching the new docuseries? Let us know in the comments.
READ MORE:
- Jinger Duggar Vuolo, former star of ’19 Kids & Counting,’ believed she had to wear dresses to ‘please God’
- Former reality star Josh Duggar sentenced to 12 years in prison in child porn case
