Discovery Communications Announces Write-Downs In Second Quarter: Some Amounts Due To Cancellation of “19 Kids and Counting”

The Hollywood Reporter notes that Discovery Communications has taken a $24 million hit in the second quarter over losses, including a $19 million write-down over cancellation of the popular 19 Kids and Counting. The network ended the show after revelations that Duggar son Josh had sexually abused several underage girls including two of his own sisters.

At the end of 2014, Discovery Communications also announced losses, attributing some of those to cancellations of shows Here Comes Honey Boo Boo and Sons of Guns. 

In both of those cases as well, child welfare seems to have been the trigger for cancellation.  Media reported that June Shannon, mother of Alana (Honey Boo Boo), was dating a convicted child molester.   After considering the reports, the network released a statement saying,  “TLC has cancelled the series ‘Here Comes Honey Boo Boo’ and ended all activities around the series, effective immediately.  Supporting the health and welfare of these remarkable children is our only priority. TLC is faithfully committed to the children’s ongoing comfort and well-being.” 

Sons of Guns star Will Hayden was arrested on child rape charges in 2014, which led to the cancellation of his show. The network released the following in a statement, “Given the serious and horrific nature of the charges against Will Hayden, we have decided to halt further production of ‘Sons of Guns’ and cancel the series.”