Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar face money issues as $3.5M fortune dwindles after show axed amid Josh's sex scandal
TONTITOWN, ARKANSAS: Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, known for their large family and conservative values, are facing significant financial challenges following the cancellation of their reality series and the legal expenses incurred during their eldest son Josh Duggar's high-profile trial. According to a source, the couple, who were once worth $3.5 million, is currently struggling with financial strain as they navigate legal fees and provide support to Josh's wife, Anna, and their six children.
The Duggar family rose to fame through their reality series, which initially showcased their 19 children and their strong cult-like religious beliefs. However, their carefully constructed image was shattered when allegations surfaced against their son, Josh, resulting in his arrest on charges of possessing child pornography. Despite attempts by TLC to revive the show the network ultimately decided to cancel the show in 2021. However, a new docuseries 'Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets' has revealed more shocking allegations against the family.
'Money is a real issue!'
The Duggar family's financial struggles became evident as Jim Bob sold several plots of their Arkansas property over the past two years. Alongside property sales, the couple has implemented cost-cutting measures at home, including reducing grocery bills and having the younger children wear hand-me-downs. In January 2022, they sold 5 acres of land worth $46,000. Later that year, Jim Bob sold several of his vehicles, including a 2006 Dodge RM 3500, a 1979 trailer, and a 2020 Yes Tandem. "It’s still not enough," the source explained. "They’re cutting back at home, trimming grocery bills, and the younger kids are wearing hand-me downs. Money is a real issue," reported Ok!
Furthermore, in a shocking turn of events, Jim Bob and Michelle's daughter Jill Duggar claimed her parents exploited her and her siblings by manipulating them into signing contracts and participating in multiple reality shows without fair compensation. She revealed that her father prevented his children from receiving payment for their involvement in the family's numerous TLC reality shows, even after they reached adulthood. "No check, no cash, no nothing. For seven-and-a-half years of my adult life, I was never paid. We were taken advantage of." According to Jill, the Duggars received $18 million throughout their 21 seasons on TV, all of which, she claims, went into her father's pocket.
The Duggar family's financial woes
In a puzzling transaction, Jeremiah, one of the Duggar sons, initially purchased a .381-acre parcel of land from Jim Bob for $63,000 but reportedly sold it back to his father for a mere $10 in November 2022. The reason behind this transaction remains unclear, but it could be linked to the family's alleged financial troubles. The financial woes of the Duggar family have been further underscored by Jill's revelation that she was not paid for her time on the show for over seven years of her adult life.
Reports indicate that when Jill and her husband, Derick Dillard, requested compensation for their appearances, Jim Bob allegedly offered them a meager $10 per hour, while he was reportedly earning around $850,000 for a full season. Derick expressed his disillusionment with Jim Bob, accusing him of manipulation and deceit for personal gain. In the docuseries, Derick stated, "Unfortunately, it’s only become clearer to us over time just how deep this man’s manipulation and deceit will go for his own gain." As the Duggar family grapples with financial difficulties and faces the fallout from Josh's legal troubles, their public image continues to be marred by controversies and revelations