Jill Duggar opens up about strict upbringing in new memoir | Nightline

Juju Chang sits down with the former reality star and her husband about her book "Counting the Cost," and what she claims were years of control and manipulation by her family.
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[@Pigletpronto]

“You treat me worse than my pedeophile brother “. What a quote she has.

[@NazriB]

Lies again? I notice that men who serve country have good upbringing leading to dad father

[@acutehandle]

@@NazriBwhat

[@elizvan5758]

Right...and NOW is she being controlled by her greedy, one time possibly poor, "operating" husband?

[@michmex220]

@@NazriB come again ??

[@AImaniaX]

Mad respect for her when she said this!

[@laurasmith3430]

“Honoring is not the same thing as obeying.” Thank you thank you thank you!

[@nikkio.9990]

To me obeying means " I own you and you need to do what I say" And to be honest many in Christianity do think they own their children. We don't own our children. we shouldn't never own another human. we can be their provider, their caretaker, their leader, but they have independence and autonomy, which is a human right. Even when I was a more conservative evangelical Christian I was always deeply uncomfortable with the concept of children needing to "obey" Yes I wanted my children to respect me, yes I needed them to listen to the rules especially where safety was concerned but I always thought to myself, "why can't I just work with them instead of Lord over ?" I always parented from a place of what will build a relationship with them in the future? verses how do I make them do what I say. Everyone I knew who grew up in authoritative home is never close to their parents as adults, at best its a polite relationship.

[@sofrito7914]

💯💯💯💯💯

[@gaminggrannyyaall]

Unfortunately in some religions it is....I still have trouble talking back to adults,and I am an old lady.

[@lhr8833]

@@gaminggrannyyaallremember the bible also says to the parents not be exasperating their children, so that they don’t become downhearted. Nobody is a real christian if they are only applying half of the instructions. Honoring the parents was never intended to be used as manipulation while abusing their children, whoever has that point of view, is a hypocrite.

[@ahill4642]

Yes!!

[@michelleb9884]

I love how her vocabulary has improved so much since she got out. She’s not just robotically repeating what she’s been told, saying “like, um” every other word etc. she’s very articulate and self aware.

[@natatatt]

Her voice has a lot more confidence behind it now too. Used to have a more soft, overly sweet tone.

[@ashleyk9209]

@@natatattyes! They’re literally coached to sound that way, sweet and soft spoken. I can’t imagine having to soften my voice every time I open my mouth just to please these men and be exactly what they want you to be, it’s ridiculous.

[@Skatejock21]

she is also an adult and has the comprehension of an adult. She's also out of TLC and frankly with their track record as we saw with Jon Gosslin. Its not all the parents, its also TLC.

[@eliciaeldridge3452]

She still says unm a lot , I think it just might be her feeling overthinking or feeling awkward no ones ever perfect.

[@marykeen4462]

The parents gave her a good education to use to turn on them.

[@lisamcgrath3132]

Her book is amazing, I listened to the Audio version where she reads the book herself. She in no way disrespected her parents or family in the book, she told her truth. She’s shown grace where grace has not been shown to her, especially by her dad.

[@AImaniaX]

Right I can’t wait to read the book even though I know a lot already. But I’m so so glad that she came out finally with her book. She is speaking the truth. Not sure if I like when someone says her truth. There is the truth period. Don’t feel she’s the kind of person to lie. It’s been going on for many years. The dad told them it was a volunteer kind of thing. He never promised any of them money. In fact when he was confronted, he has a laundry list of expenses and many of those were basic necessities that your suppose to provide your children. Jim bob and Michelle really planned this all along. He wanted to be a senator and he wanted to have a big family to spread his Christian cult beliefs. He knew that he would get the attention. I feel now that it was all planned very very early on. And it worked and they got on tv and the rest is history.

[@jademaldonado9247]

If you don’t mind my asking, how/where can I purchase the audible version as mentioned? I have a road trip coming up and would love to listen to it on the drive

[@lisamcgrath3132]

@@AImaniaX The reason I used the words “her truth” is because you nor I where there for any of the things she talks about, we did not live her life. I completely believe everything she’s written because she lived it.

[@v90660]

Oh so it wasn't like Harry's Spare

[@lisamcgrath3132]

@@v90660 Never read his book

[@myfuzzyblanket]

I’m happy that she is using her voice to 🗣️ Speak out about it and her husband supports her ❤

[@jessice293]

Her husband seems very smart and wants to have Jill’s back. It’s nice to see

[@kimberlyhonig8030]

Absolutely! I really love how supportive he is of her. She needs that. They seem lovely together.

[@siam5579]

What I find inspirational too is that he went to school to be a lawyer and just passed bar, I think right before she had their last baby. That had to be hard to do on their own. I’m just really proud of them for stepping forward and telling the truth. I used to watch them all the time, and I always had the feeling that Jim Bob wasn’t a very good guy.

[@sr-ty7gb]

What rules does Jill and hubby have for their own kids. Share your rules with the world and see how your new supporters like them. Will you let them pick their own gender? Why do you not have a pride flag at your home Jill? Are you homophobic? Come on Jill cozy up to the media and share your views. I promise you they will see very little difference in your parent's views and yours.

[@chrisb5793]

So are all the other sinners that choose to follow satan

[@RaiyaSaleem-vn6jw]

There really aren't words to describe how profoundly sad it is that Jill, Jessa and all of those children have to carry the weight of their parents choices - the choice to be in the cult, the choice to be on television and the choice to protect a pedo

[@saraz9017]

Also the media for choosing to publish the information.

[@RaiyaSaleem-vn6jw]

Ohhh yes that part too. The documentary Shiny Happy People did a good job at illustrating how aware TLC was that unhealthy things were happening. The people behind that show should have done more to protect those children. Same with the Fox interview post Josh scandal (Josh having been in the room).Ugh youre so right@@saraz9017

[@michmex220]

And still not get paid ! I never did like the father , I always new he was wired! Now Jill has confirmed my feelings👍🏼

[@thewkovacs316]

they could have gotten josh real help when he was younger....they chose not to the parents are evil

[@Wisepati]

@@saraz9017 I think it’s good the media is publishing the information, because otherwise people would continue to think this type of thing was the way to raise children, and their life was perfect.

[@katiehernandez8114]

I think her parents need held accountable for not protecting her and her sisters. It's sad that they are in denial.

[@countrygirlokla]

100%. But when all youre focused on is breeding, there isnt much time to actually raise them all...imagine that. 🙄

[@raystacks]

Absolutely this is horrific

[@Flufferz626]

​@@countrygirloklahave a classmate from high-school and he and his wife have their 7th child due February of next year. Their oldest just turned 8 years old and he is 33. They both discussed having a "full quiver" of kids which really rubbed me wrong because the other time I heard that term was Andrea Yates. This kind of upbringing is so messed up. We're gonna try for a kid soon (I'm 33 he is 35) and we waited so long because this world is dangerous for a kid. As always, I guess. But I don't think a human can devote 24/7 time to a certain amount of kids without parentification or favoritism.

[@memyself7956]

I would LOVE to see Jim Bob in prison with his sick son.

[@tbella5186]

With the change in laws, the girls could actually press charges now. Hopefully one of them will.

[@lisasnyder8485]

I almost fell out of my chair when the interviewer said to Jill I didn't know that while you and your sister were giving that interview that Josh was sitting in the room watching !! WTF ? An incredibly difficult interview was made so much worse by not only Jim Bob telling them to lie they were also forced to sit their and look at their abuser while answering questions. That right there was vile Jim Bob is disgusting and shame on their mom for not protecting them or standing up for her girls... They will both have to answer for that when judged !!

[@beckee6282]

As a victim myself that angered me to my core. To be traumatized over and over again in such profound ways. These women have been through so much. Their parents are demonic, ironically enough

[@kpl-CA]

Yup, that choice to brutalize their disposable daughters in front of their preening, arrogant, controlling, entitled "golden child" psychopath spawn... was *PROOF* "Jim-Boob" and "MooShill" are absolutely complicit, knowing, EVIL abusers, manipulators and exploiters. For MONEY. They deliberately bred abuse victims. "Jim-Boob" and "MooShill" claim to be "holier than thou" and "superior" and "righteous" when they're really just LAZY, vain, disgusting money grubbers, fame addicts, perverts, and loser political wannabes. They aren't even CAPABLE of decent, ethical behaviour any more, they have sunk so far. They can't even recognize normalcy, decency or kindness. Run, girls, run. Don't let them treat you like livestock any more.

[@donnackk5860]

She is so brave.Her father is a disgrace.

[@lindaloefflad4116]

Both parents are.

[@pippadawg7037]

@@lindaloefflad4116 They are both sociopaths. Michelle reminds me of Erika Sifrit wife of Benjamin Sifrit. Erika would have followed Benjamin anywhere and done anything for him.

[@kristineberger3621]

I never liked the Father....Jim Bob. He kinda gave me the creeps.

[@UnderTheTableGremlin]

So are Michelle and those pedophiles Josh and Bill Gothard.

[@sarahrose1454]

Michelle is no better😡

[@rachael2119]

The fact that since she’s been living out of the home she is learning and more aware about her parents.Thank you for speaking out

[@MissSpaz]

Her dad forced all the other kids to sign a "lifetime" NDA. They aren't allowed to say anything critical about their dad OR Josh. The "company line" regarding Josh is that he was framed.

[@LifewiththeBennettss]

Exactly when you're in it, u will never see it for what it is until u leave

[@CaliMel184]

@@MissSpaz But surely that cannot be legal. If they're children while they sign, they can't legally be bound to that. and if it is him manipulating and threatening them to get it signed, that voids it. They can say whatever they want. Jills husband is literally a lawyer who can help them.

[@soapqueen2008]

@@CaliMel184no there were all signed when the kids were adults so it’s legally binding

[@mariyaa111]

I ❤ that her husband has been her strength and her protector. When you come from a house where NEVER felt safe in, having someone who’s number 1 goal in life is to protect you, can help you heal in so many ways. I hope that she stays away from them. It’s so funny that the parents claim that they, “live their lives for Christ,” but their adult children need their permission to do anything. .. sounds more like a cult to me ! 🤔

[@LizRealGirlBeauty]

It's about power, control and greed for JB.

[@TJMoolTricia]

Me too. I come from a similar gaslighting, religious abuse background, and it is amazing to have a deeply supportive spouse. It has been a gift for healing, and one I always let him know Im grateful for.

[@farmhouse6093]

Cult is exactly correct.

[@farmhouse6093]

​@@LizRealGirlBeautyYes!! Exactly greed, money thank you

[@moonbaby2212]

Oh he’s a good guy na he’s a bigot he’s a transphobia

[@kinkycoiled]

So glad Jill (and Jinger) had the courage to tell their story. Hoping the other sisters have the courage to do the same.

[@cellokimmy]

They’re all under a lifetime nda.

[@bec6384]

They can’t. Jill was only able to do so because she refused to sign a lifetime NDA.

[@ashdallis6701]

are they really? that's sad!@@cellokimmy

[@cellokimmy]

@@ashdallis6701 according to Jill’s book, JB offered them $80k and it came with a 4 page contract that included access to their kids and unborn kids for filming, and a lifetime NDA. She also says that JB told the kids they either side with him or Jill, there are no neutral parties. If they took the money/ signed that contract they are essentially stuck obeying JB forever. Also, now that I read that in Jill’s book, I want to read Jinger’s book. I bet there’s a whole bunch of reading between the lines that can be done.

[@logicisuseful]

@@bec6384someday they may figure out that said NDA is probably unenforceable (lifetime NDAs usually are, especially in circumstances like those present in the Duggars’ case). I can only hope (in addition to hoping that more of the kids figure out that their parents’ cult has some very stark differences from 99.999% of Christian churches and is precisely that - a cult).

[@paranrmlgrl]

As someone who grew up in essentially the same “Christian” community (right down to the curriculum used to Homeschool me), it’s so sad that this is not abnormal in the community. 😢 I have decided not to raise my children in this way and I have distanced myself from the faith entirely. It’s all a mask for getting away with horrible behavior.

[@jgirl982]

Same

[@KingAngel4Life]

Oh my goodness. I’m feeling like I can’t even say I’m a Christian anymore. I’m choosing to say I’m spiritual. I was raised in the church. It’s sad what’s coming out about many.

[@Weatheredstorms1]

Totally agree. I grew up in the same way. In fact when my sister and I grew up we were conditioned to stay in abusive marriages because it was a “sin” to leave such a situation. My life wasn’t my own unless my parents and essentially the church thought it was ok and gave their blessing. I remember some family members not in the church were able to marry or divorce freely and my mom was like “she wanted a family” and felt a sense of sympathy for her. And it was then I felt this sense of if I want my life to be happy I need to start making my own decisions and not worry if I have my parents blessing. I parted ways with their church. I got a divorce (a sin in their eyes) and married a wonderful man I don’t have to worry about killing me and yet its an even bigger sin in their eyes.

[@gaminggrannyyaall]

I understand I was raised similarly, still in therapy. My husband left almost 4 years ago and we're still married just separated. He lives in his parents house and is with a mutual friend of ours. I would have Never done this to him. Thank God for my sons and daughter in love, who live with and take care of me. I have been with him since I was 17, and we were married 30 years when he left. I don't know if I can ever let go and raise grandkids together but I will have to try for my kids and grandkids.

[@ranicesmeragulio9299]

This is not true love or religion.

[@lynnkalles2055]

What an evil cult. Jim Bob truly needs to be investigated for protecting josh for so many years. And greed is 1 of the 7 deadliest sins. He stole from each 1 of his children

[@missaamane8580]

Bingo

[@kirstieb8025]

bet he’s a pedo. michelle should divorce his ass.

[@JustAName-hi6mh]

I just finished her book and the amount of grace and strength she handled everything at such a young age is so impressive.

[@elizvan5758]

The core of who she is is BECAUSE of her parents and upbringing. Not perhaps greedy revengeful Derrick.

[@Quaker-tc8ue]

Truths you don’t like isn’t revengeful. It’s you, being willfully ignorant. @@elizvan5758

[@memyself7956]

@@elizvan5758 The core of who she is is because of God. Her parents should be ashamed of themselves & begging her for forgiveness. They failed her.

[@NYChica23]

@@elizvan5758 Considering Derrick has been the most supportive of her when the news that she was sexually abused as a child and then forced to lie on camera to protect her abuser all came out, I'd hardly call him greedy and revengeful. If anything, it's God (not the counterfeit version her parents claim to serve) who has provided her with the strength to find that voice to speak out on her past traumas and hopefully help others who are in similar situations

[@AImaniaX]

It’s completely disgusting how the sisters have been exploited by the parents. Absolutely sickening. I’ve watched the show from the beginning and always had a strange feeling. So when that came out about Josh I can’t say I was in shock. The parents should be ashamed for all the hell they put their kids through.

[@Bex81]

Same here! I watched the show from the beginning and always had a sense that something just wasn't right, especially with Josh. Very sad how the kids were exploited and still ARE being exploited. I'm so glad that Jill got out.

[@laurac86]

I never watched a full episode but have seen clips here and there but I always knew there was something weird about them and it always surprised me that they had such die hard fans that thought everything was totally normal about them! There’s so many kids that now have to deal with the trauma they’ve endured it’s just so sad. Good for the ones who are speaking out!

[@Nan-1017]

@@laurac86yea, the parents should be charged with abuse and the younger children put in protective custody. It’s a freakin cult…very abusive and harmful. Sick 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@jrmorrissey207]

but...but... they're "Christians"

[@melindaturner2527]

I really think there will be a special place in hell for them for what they have done!

[@wisdomlistens20]

So a daughter is on a show to tell her side of her journey and story of her life with abuse from her family and brother. Her parents response is they would rather not deal with this in public like some holier then thou response! How disgusting! Considering they were ready to send their abused daughters on a media tour to save their gross son and abusive brand! Can they even hear themselves speak anymore ?

[@mktay2067]

It actually is common sense and almost all counsellors and physiologist would encourage people to work out their issues with others privately or with mediators vs going "public" with their dirty laundry. 🤷 If you want reconciliation this is going to sink it. If you want to tell your story for the world to become the jury than its great.

[@Sharon-yp1ci]

​@@mktay2067 You missed the salient point of wisdomlistens20 which is the psychological covert abuse that the children endured under the abusive and twisted fundamental religious indoctrination of their parents Jim-Bob and Michelle. The children's entire existence was made into a performative public art show in service of protecting a brand and projecting a false image of pureness and moral superiority. Those kids lived in secret and shame....the first step in healing is unmasking and bringing the secrets to light so the shame can die. The goal is not reconciliation. That may come later. Those kids should not have to carry the secrets and shame in order to protect the parents anymore. Enough. It is very telling that the parents put that manipulative statement out about privacy when they are the ones who made everything about the kids life public....except of course, when the kids were taught and coached to "keep the dirty laundry" secret.

[@daniellesnyder1244]

@@mktay2067You are correct, however, the point is that they shoved their kids into the public’s eye (all the while being very much against tv of any kind in their own household) and now all of a sudden want their privacy. Jill absolutely deserves the right to be able to set the record straight when she was abused so abominably by her own family.

[@mommysaver71]

@@mktay2067except Jim Bob doesn’t allow them to speak to counselors. Fundies are not allowed to seek help in that way. They are to get help from God 😠 Jill is the only one from that family who has gotten help for mental health issues from what Josh did and how Jim Bob now treats her.

[@music4thesoul80]

​@@mktay2067 - You obviously know *nothing* about Jim Bob Duggar. Jill has tried for years to get her parents to agree to private family counselling but Jim Bob won't have anything to do with it and won't let his wife or any of his other children participate in therapy either. Jim Bob doesn't want reconciliation with Jill, he wants total and complete control of her life even though she's an adult married woman with three children of her own. Also have you ever stopped to consider that Jill wants to share her story with the world because for the first time in her life she actually has a voice that isn't being shut down and controlled by her abusive father??

[@daniellesnyder1244]

I’m so proud of Jill. And the gaslighting that goes on with her parents is, sadly, not surprising. Funny how they say the way to not deal with this is in the public eye when they were JUST FINE doing so when it meant making money off the kids. Shameful. In the end, her parents have to answer to God, and that’s far more sobering.

[@farmhouse6093]

Yes exactly they are both fake ugh never could stand them. Hopefully their kids are living happy normal lived now

[@Amy-466]

Not a GOD believer but yes, they will have what is coming to them.

[@Rasputiahowyoudoin]

I’m proud of her it takes balls to speak up for yourself I hope her siblings don’t shun her a lot of people don’t want to face their trauma and pretend it never happened

[@catherinecampbell1215]

Jinger has also spoken out so I think she at least has her.

[@mimimosa259]

I’m glad Jill and Derrick found each other. I hope they find strength and healing together

[@AngelaVEdwards]

*Something Jill Missed* *I got Jill's book yesterday and was able to finish it same day. It was a great book. I would warn Jill, however, that the issues she had with her father did not **_only_** belong to her father. Her mother contributed as well and her mother could have done a lot of things to offset some of the things her father did and she didn't. Her mother has just as many "issues" as her father does but Jill doesn't see it. She speaks of her mother as if she were the most wonderful person on earth, hands down. No, Jill. The issue you have is with your **_parents,_** not just your father.*

[@tannergrace9996]

Well said!!!

[@lisabrents223]

She’s not there yet. Has to get there on her own time. :-/

[@goodenoughgirl8102]

So true. I could say similar for myself. It took me forever to see how my mother really is. Hopefully she will figure that out in good time.

[@Shivuara]

There’s always an enabler and an abuser in these types of situations. Rarely is there ever just one abusive parent.

[@ObamAmerican48]

Derick is an attorney?! That's awesome 😊👍🏼 Good for him and Jill, making their own life separate from the sickness of Jim Bob and Michelle.

[@EvelineUK]

Yes, and that helped so much when Jim Bob decided to try and trick his kids yet again in signing a new contract, this time demanding them to always be available for filming, including their kids and future children (!), and.. an NDA. Jill did not sign, the others seemingly did as nobody else dares to speak out. It's all just so heartbreaking, but so glad she had Derick by her side

[@elizvan5758]

Yeah but is he a working attorney..did he only graduate from law school but fail the Barre? We do not know and have not heard.

[@elizvan5758]

Jill had signed these kind of contracts in the past. I mean, she was already an adult and as one had been filming and signing these contracts before ...AS AN ADULT. Her adult sisters had signed the same contract, no problem either! Come on! This was nothing new to Jill! Untill now, this was never a problem...but now it is?? I smell a rat...and I think it may be Derrick related.

[@MandieTerrier]

​@@elizvan5758he is working as an ADA in Oklahoma

[@MandieTerrier]

​@@elizvan5758it had been a problem for six or more years

[@TamaraDix-rj5no]

I really like her and how open and honest she is with everyone. Her husband is so supportive and their marriage seems to be a happy and healthy one. She gives people hope that you can have a horrible start in life and it will turn out well.

[@melissag.1335]

The level of courage these two have is exactly what the world needs. No religion or faith based community is immune to control, manipulation, lies, intimidation and rejection. Many women and men who question these powerful circles (even within families) are rejected. Thats the hardest part for the ones that decide to stand tall in courage. It happens in Muslim, Jewish and Hindu communities as well. I hope they find their community and also keep speaking up. So many of us need more of this. There is nothing worse than your parents or family turning their back on you when you speak the truth and say no, its not ok. It comes at a cost, but know that its a just cause. They are doing the right thing. I hope they continue to live wonderful lives and never feel alone.

[@bec6384]

I don’t even have time to read her book because I have two babies, but I bought it. Mostly in support of Jill and Derrick. So proud of them.

[@alisonhall800]

Listen to her audiobook! I’m a young mom too and I just finished listening.

[@colleenkeller9226]

Consider audiobooks in general. You can listen to just about any genre while busy with the kids and home.

[@killerpeguins]

It was a quick read! I have 2under2 and was amazed by how quick I read it. It was so good!!

[@vickykulig5080]

I preordered her book months ago, and I’m really looking forward to reading it and no one should ever have to go through what Jill went through, I hope this book gives her peace and her and Derek can live their life to the fullest

[@poollife777]

She found another way to dupe people out of money.

[@skyeblue5669]

.. WHY

[@meomy29]

@@skyeblue5669 Jill has a story to tell. You must be somewhat interested or you wouldn't have clicked on this video.

[@skyeblue5669]

@@meomy29 .. Everyone has a FAKE story to tell for MONEY right...

[@mcrchickenluvr]

@@skyeblue5669fake? So I guess you haven’t paid attention to the fact that her oldest brother is a well known child molester.

[@heylookatmelookatme]

Good to see Jill, Derick and their boys thriving.....cult-free.🧡

[@enjoyingmyvodka1013]

I’m glad she’s speaking out and being honest as well as Jinger with her book. I’m glad they are living their lives more normally and without fear. She found aman who is supportive and encouraging. He is by his side every step of the way. I wish them all the best!

[@lifewithfartun3726]

To Jim Bob and Michelle, if you didn’t want the story told, then you should not have done what you did. Wishing the best to Jill and Derick as they heal from this and move forward ❤

[@AmySmile]

Funny how Jim Bob found a husband for Jill (and some of the other daughters) who was so good for her that after marriage opened her eyes to the nature of her family. Somehow it seems that they have a blessed marriage together now

[@aro4781]

Most of the girls were matched with guys that were God fearing and into the same things as them. Turns out those daughters have blossomed and created a healthy distance from their upbringing.

[@AmySmile]

Exactly what I was trying to say 😊 except I'm not so great with words

[@vw4822]

@AmySmile Yes, lucky for them they were not despicable humans like her father.

[@farmhouse6093]

Amen

[@user-qk8uq4hh3k]

Amy,That is a very profound statement.Thank you.

[@glendagai]

Jill has been the most inspiring child of this family. Thank God she married an educated man. He is the most impressive husband of all the girls.

[@elizvan5758]

He went to law school AFTER marring her...yeah..to possibly get back and show 'em all? Before that, he had no real career or job. He and Jill were going on missions to third world countries at that time. Did they come back broke? Needed money? Did he try to get more from papa Jim Bob, couldn't succeed, THEN went to law school? He did graduate and Jill posted that! But...is he a WORKING attorney? I never saw a post for him passing the Barre. He also co-wrote this book. Is he currently hard up for money? Is this book one of revenge and one that Derrick talked Jill into for money and revenge?? Idk. I have a lot of questions here.

[@mariamedina6014]

He was an accountant before he married Jill. He use to work at Walmart headquarters he was a manager there in the tax division area. It’s in the book

[@Amy-466]

@@elizvan5758 Impressed he got his degree. Good for him!

[@xocoolchickxo]

I like what she said at the end. You can have positive and negative experiences, they can co-exist and you just gotta give yourself grace. Love Jill for speaking out and using her voice.

[@addie-eileenpaige6460]

Total respect to her for sharing her story.

[@kimberlyhonig8030]

I love how she has such a supportive partner. She flipping needs it. She needs a husband to stand by her. They’re very lucky to have each other.

[@kimmontenegro2258]

I remember telling my friends who watched this show, that the fallout after everyone grew up would be interesting. Time is always the best teller of truth.

[@julietteoscaralphanovember2223]

JimBob should be so ashamed of himself. He's a poor excuse for a dad. Michelle is no better, she allowed JimBob to control everything and stood by while her daughters were abused. Both are horrible!! To use your own children and never pay them is sickening.

[@nicoleortiz9884]

Michelle was just doing what her god told her, whatever her husband says....

[@ctin904]

So sorry for Jill but so proud of her!

[@francesauraliadelacroix]

Very brave!! Sending you all love ❤

[@DancingOnGlass89]

I couldn't watch the show growing up to much, it made me feel ill. However knowing of it and seeing what has happened since, Im proud of them for speaking up. Good to see she's found herself and someone wonderful is there to "move on" and grow with.

[@rachelv93]

Jill is so well spoken. I feel for her but am happy she is doing the right thing for her and her family

[@StarryNightsAreForDreams]

I can’t wait to read this book that I ordered well ahead of its release date. It’s been a long time coming. I am so amazed by Jill’s courage and strength; but most of all that she and Derrick stepped away from her childhood to create a life for their own family that honors God and lets them at the same time be true to themselves.

[@addie-eileenpaige6460]

I burned through it in ONE DAY!!!!!!!!

[@tpenquin.]

Jill you are a strong woman!! Good luck to you in the future with your beautiful family! ❤

[@Bananas904]

Never sign legally binding documents: 1. that you do not read in their entirety before signing 2. that you do not have reviewed by an attorney 3. before, during, or immediately after highly emotional events

[@g.flesch9731]

It is her father who made her sign the document & she was not fully understanding what she was signing. For a father to do this knowing he will make money that belonged to his kids is a sin. Maybe Jim Bob needs to understand how much of a sinner he is. That was financial abuse. Agree with your 3 points! Jill & Derek seem like a wonderful couple. Hope her book is a success.

[@kellymcfalls1458]

@@g.flesch9731She still should have read it before she signed it

[@kris78787]

​@@g.flesch9731 she was an adult though, if she doesn't read and understand what she's signing then that's on her. When you're over 18 you're fully capable of reading a contract for yourself and making your own decisions.

[@kris78787]

​@@kellymcfalls1458I agree, she was over 18, she was an adult

[@bobbersg8058]

I am thankful that Jill is finally free from the control of her parents. Derick seems very loving and supportive of his wife. Their sons will have a much different childhood than their mother experienced. There are so many good times ahead for Jill and Derick and their boys.

[@ljcovey5266]

My father always talked to me and insisted that I never, ever, ever, sign a contract or any document without reading it first. I bought my first car when I was 18 and the dealership was shocked that I sat there and read every word of every page.

[@bongwaterbaths]

How rich that the Duggar parents now don’t feel it’s appropriate to address things publicly, yet it was fully appropriate to raise their children on television.

[@margaretstroud1071]

I'm so glad they were able to get away. I really feel for Jill and what she went through. I absolutely applaud her, and what she is doing. Going through so much and coming out a better person. I hope she continues to persevere through her struggles. God bless her.❤

[@jessicarobinson5816]

I am so happy to see Jill and Jinger living a happy life. Thinking and doing whats best for themselves and their families ❤

[@christinegivens9048]

More like she’s outed her father for exploiting her and her siblings. That title is too kind. Jim Bob Duggar is an evil man.

[@laurao8099]

One thing that drives me nuts more than anyting it's what I call "Image bearing parents". Parents who constantly need for their kids to help them make them "look good". I have been a nanny for over 25 years and it is usually pretty obvious when parents put the image of the family on the children just to make sure everybody looks good. I remember watching 19kidsandcounting and thinking I cannot wait until 10 years from now and we hear more about what's going on in this household. That being said of course I watch all of their KZbin family channels. I was raised to be atheist by a mom who was Brazen a missionary family so the whole obey your mother and father thing was really interesting to me as I went to church at 16 knowing full well that my mom would not approve LOL I was taught the significance over obeying God before obeying parents.

[@flutey28]

So proud of you Jill. Speak your truth, the world believes you

[@arielm1112]

I am so unbelievably PROUD of Jill. It takes incredible courage and honesty to stand up against abusive and controlling family members.

[@user-je5rf1pu7o]

And this is why you should never invite the media into your life.

[@PossumLover1111]

Took me a couple nights to read and finish the book. It was a page turner. A great read. Such a lovely couple and so glad they are independent and live freely in their own way. God bless them and their 3 sons.

[@angelahodge6902]

She’s done a wonderful job with her family. It’s been a pleasure watching her grow.

[@AlexZ-lc6nl]

My wife is 29. Her sister 37. They still follow their mother and father as if they were 12. their family call it the “circle of trust”. I find it extremely manipulative. Specially when the mom is all or nothing and the dad says things like “you think you’re better than us” when I don’t want to revolve my life around their plans….sometimes I wish I would have courted my wife longer. And also, I strongly consider every day moving far away to avoid contact as much as possible…

[@rachelsoto6857]

Hello Alex I agree with you move far away from them.

[@kerrylennox7359]

Its funny that that JB & Michelle dont want to discuss their family problems with the media now and yet they exploited their whole family on a TV show for years and went on every other TV show to promote it..🤷🏻‍♀️

[@itsokaynatalie]

Exactly! It’s ridiculous

[@CityChristina]

Christians are the biggest hypocrites on Earth, what do you expect?

[@meeks1201]

Ugh and their oldest brother who violated the girls and got caught being on Ashley Madison, toxic dysfunctional parenting hiding behind religion 🙄

[@Katch.22]

i wonder what that guy believes in. if he believes in God he knows he's screwed.

[@LisaMarie-rh5yn]

They are both so exceptional. So happy to see they've not only made it, but are thriving.

[@Lisajed]

Her husband really loves and cares about Jill deeply he's her emotional Rock you can tell❤❤

[@juliakaas4561]

So glad this is finally getting coverage!!!!!

[@Cantetinza17]

I love that all the kids are coming out and telling their truth. Especially the girls.

[@Earthy-Artist]

Jill & Jinger are both such strong, intelligent, good women, I'm so happy they have broken free from this family cult but still have kept God in their lives. I'm happy they have wonderful husbands to support and encourage them and their own healthier lives now.

[@teamcougars]

I admire Jill’s honesty and willingness to do the hard work 😢❤❤

[@PrincessPowerranger]

Wait Josh was present behind the cameras during the Meghan Kelly interview, gross

[@NicolesNaturals]

I used to put this family on a pedestal. After the scandal broke, I was so upset. I home schooled my kids all the way through high school, however I was in NO WAY as strict as the Duggars. I let my kids wear whatever they wanted, they could listen to whatever music they wanted. I believe that freedom of expression is very important. They also had lots of friends in the neighborhood who went to a public school. I was pretty strict about them watching R rated movies with sex scenes, but swearing or violence was OK once they were teenagers. They are both still virgins at 23 and 20, and I always maintained that it's best to wait until marriage to have sex (it just complicates things!) however, I would never judge them if they decided not to wait. They are both great people and I don't regret anything. We all have a great relationship. It's so sad to see Jill doesn't have a good relationship with her parents. Too much control isn't good for kids. There needs to be a healthy balance.

[@flowerpower3618]

This isn’t about loving the Lord, having a big ole family, homeschooling, even dressing modestly . It’s about control.

[@crystaldon4995]

Those girls. I'm so proud of them. It takes a lot of courage and their husbands are helping them so much. Praise God.

[@Esperanza218]

Good for her! She deserves to be happy & live her life on her terms….not her parents who clearly are dysfunctional

[@allytrudie864]

When the show first came out all those decades ago I remember my family thinking out loud how many of the kids would still be talking to their parents by the time they were 25. Everyone who watches these big fundy families could see how toxic and abusive the things they were taught were. It was never going to be sustainable to have a family that large and thinking they would all agree to the sexist and controlling life forever once they started getting a taste of independence. JB was such a creep from day one and wasn’t even hiding it. Amazing the crap they used to allow on tv. But this show was all about watching a car crash and we all knew it. When the big explosion (josh) came out not a single person was surprised. Raising a family that f’d up you knew when the dam finally broke it was going to be huge and many of us predicted a pedo in the family but we assumed it started with JB. I’m still convinced josh got his predilection for children from his dad. Learned from his dad. 🤷🏼‍♀️ we still don’t know what JB and Michelles deep secrets are- he’s a pedo for sure in all our assumptions

[@gaminggrannyyaall]

For me in the beginning, it was nice to see a family similar to the way I was raised on tv. It was interesting to watch things I knew only certain people would even understand. I have on numerous occasions I defended them. Now, feel jaded by the whole thing and even now I miss when we got baby announcements and births. I understand why share when you know it draws hate,in almost any post ppl find something to send negative messages.

[@VelveteenRabbit77]

His predilection for child prn from JB based on what ????????

[@mommysaver71]

@@VelveteenRabbit77he molested his sisters and he probably got it from his dad who has always been very creepy

[@KB-nr3ls]

​@gaminggrannyyaall I am confused. In this post, you are offended and/hurt by the way in which people respond to anything having to do with Jim Bob and the affects his behavior has had on his children. In another post, you express the difficulties of having been raised in a home very similar to the Duggars, i.e., the same homeschooling, etc. However, having been married at the tender age of 17, after 30 years of marriage, your husband left you. Luckily, you are young, and you have your children. Forgive me for being so forward, but understandably, you sound confused. I am hearing you miss all the good aspects of your former (?) religion, and feel sensitive when people criticize the life you knew, yet, at the same time, 30 years later, you are also feeling the not so positive effects of marriage within this religious sect and now you find yourself on your own, with the exception of your children. Before I go any further, I know it is very possible I have misunderstood everything you wrote, and if I did, I sincerely apologize. If I didn't, I want to underscore you probably aren't even 50 years old yet, or barely 50 years old. You have a good 30 some years ahead of you. You know the two Duggar girls (is it Ginger and Jessa?) did not unscramble their way of thinking or living overnight. It took specially trained counselors and a lot of purging of anger and emotions in a safe place for them to become who they are today. I also image there are support groups for women who find themselves in situations similar to yours that be extremely beneficial--as they have walked your walk and dealt with all the confusing feelings. Again, I may have misinterpreted your comments, and if I did, please forgive as I sincerely mean no harm or criticism. ❤

[@farmhouse6093]

Yes say it louder he is creepy and Michelle just as weird

[@ALiz86]

Prayers for healing after being treated so terribly.

[@infullbloomtime7479]

I’m so happy she’s finding her voice

[@tracymorgan5386]

This idyllic family the Duggers portrayed never fooled me from the get go, I knew it wasn’t realistic, healthy nor sustainable and eventually something would have to give, but I knew it would take a while. I am very proud of Jill for telling the truth and not giving her brother a pass and frankly all the kids need to sue the parents for their share of the money that was made.

[@kathyharmon2093]

Who’s Jo?

[@missaamane8580]

Yes!

[@tracymorgan5386]

@@kathyharmon2093 I meant Jill.

[@anjalisesen449]

So happy for her and am incredibly impressed by her bravery to speak out about this. So many of us were raised in this type of religious environment and its incredibly damaging to children.

[@allison2941]

God bless these two. They’ve gone through so much as a young couple. Praying they can maintain their courage and strength and love for each other.

[@jessice293]

My mum used to watch this show. I have so much respect for Jill, she’s so strong and I’m proud of her for getting out!

[@prettymesmerizing]

I am atheist and am closer to religious principles then they will ever get! Being kind, genuine and respectful should be what a person strives for and yet these people seem to focus on greed, selfishness and dark secrets. Poor children, Jill and her husband seem sweet though.

[@kathyharmon2093]

Just because they “ call” themselves Christians doesn’t make them Christians

[@lillianp-yj6yx]

@@kathyharmon2093 They seem obsessed with image and being perfect. Being a Christian isn't about being perfect, it's owning up to when you do wrong. Not sweeping it under the rug

[@user-ml3ym5hb6f]

All atheists do is replace one god with another.

[@Izzy-cp8yt]

​@@user-ml3ym5hb6f atheism is the lack of belief in a godly figure, so how in the heck do you come to the conclusion we have a "different god"?

[@rachelkessinger2295]

Good works mean nothing without Jesus.

[@jolenepayne1378]

Mad respect for the Dillard Family🎉❤👍

[@MatthewsFav]

Good for you Jill on becoming your own person. Wishing you all the best with your husband and beautiful babies.

[@jojomakes]

$50K an episode when you have 20+ people on the show is ridiculous. Shame on TLC as well.

[@s.j.johnson1961]

She broke free from the cult. She sounds levelheaded and rational. I’m sure that angers her parents, who as she said, protected her scummy child molester brother.

[@760mom]

I'm not surprised how this all turned out. I saw it coming a mile away. I've been her. I'm happy she found her way out and has such a supportive partner.

[@johannabender4998]

Jill is so unbelievably brave! So proud for the way she has stood up against the adversity.

[@patriot7986]

What a strong young lady ❤

[@ashlieelizabeth8170]

Derick is an attorney? Good for him that's awesome 👏! They deserve to be heard and they have a lot of strength to come out---sharing makes us aware and hold those accountable. Im so glad to see these kids better their lives and start over, getting away from that cesspool and not be like their culty parents

[@Erikajp]

How Christian is it to profit from your children?

[@magtag853]

Fantastic. I am so happy their union is so healthy and happy. She really lucked out!

[@dena6254]

Jill, thank you for sharing your story. I’m sorry that you had to endure that! 💗

[@gemmawatts6543]

Great Job Jill! I am so proud of you!!!

[@itsokaynatalie]

LOL. When Jim Bob and Michelle said they don’t believe the correct avenue for dealing with conflict is to handle it publicly. Got it. So it’s totally fine to publicly film your kids for tons of money for all of those years, but not when you start looking bad, right?

[@janem2684]

I think she is very brave, and it's lovely to see her husband support her.

[@amycolunga9659]

I have always enjoyed watching the show, but always had some type of feeling that the parents were pretty strict and I always felt that how they did things was very very different., and some of it seemed a bit unusual. I am so proud of each, and everyone of the girls for standing up for themselves, and moving forward in their lives, and having the courage to be strong to do what they have to do for themselves for their marriage and their children. Everyone deserves to live their lives the way they wish. When we are children, our parents raise of how they want, but once you become an adult, and especially once you get married, it is up to you to decide how you want to continue living your life and that’s up to you to decide how you’re going to raise your children. I read jills book on an audiobook because I am blind and really enjoyed reading it. I pray that Jill, Ginger and Jessa will continue to live happy, safe, comfortable, peaceful lives. 🙏🥰

[@maegand1791]

Wow she seems so strong and self aware. She's been through so much trauma, her upbringing just as much as her sexual assault. I hope she keeps that outlook and strength. Sometimes trauma can sneak up on you when you think you've moved on in little sneaky ways. All the best to her and her siblings.

[@soakitin-artisansoap8317]

❤❤❤❤❤❤ So proud of you Jill!! No person should be manipulated into a lifelong contract. For Petes sake, your his daughter!! Shame on both her parents!

[@raquelxi]

So so HAPPY for you Jill. ❤ God bless your family.

[@truth9270]

I am so proud of them❤🙏🏽

[@katiebear]

I’m so delighted to see Jill doing so well. I always thought it would be Jinger who would break away first and write the “tell all” book when they were growing up. I worry most for Jana now. Hope she gets out.

[@Summer-bo9rw]

I feel like Jana sticks around the family home to mother hawk her younger sisters still living in the home to protect them.

[@mardellahenrichs4121]

JB should go to jail for ripping of his kids . He thinks & acts like he’s so God like . When he’s really listening to the devil .

[@Katch.22]

dang. good point... i was wondering why josh is so damn dumb but look at his father...

[@seashelle73]

When she talked about how positive and negative experiences in relationships can coexist is so mature and wise. It’s incredibly difficult to balance those memories and feelings.

[@emilygray89]

This takes Such courage!!! What a wonderful example she is for others, breaking the generational curse!

[@layna-heyhey]

Don't turn your family into a business