Why Josh Duggar Wants To Return To Reality TV After ‘19 Kids’ Cancellation

Josh Duggar hasn’t appeared on television since the cancellation of TLC’s “19 Kids and Counting” in July, but that doesn’t mean he’s ready put his reality TV roots behind him. After more than a decade of living life in front of the cameras it is rumored the father of four is ready to jump back into the limelight.

A source close to Josh tells In Touch Weekly he is is looking for a payday after returning to Arkansas in March following a six-month stay at a faith-based rehabilitation center. The publication’s source says Josh, who last year admitted he had been unfaithful to his wife Anna and was revealed to have molested several of his female siblings as a teenager, reportedly realizes another TV series “is the only way he’s going to be able to make a proper income.” Recently, Josh, 28, has been working as a used car salesman and was photographed on the job.

Last month, Josh and Anna released a dual statement about the state of their marriage and their decision to pursue counseling. Insiders say that release was a calculated move by Josh to get back into the television game.

“This is a ploy by Josh to get back onto TV. He’s hoping this will show everyone he’s taken real steps to deal with his problems,” a source “close” to Josh said in the magazine’s June 13 print issue. “Josh is realizing that his father, Jim Bob, can’t keep supporting him financially for the rest of his life.”

As previously reported, TLC canceled the Duggar series “19 Kids and Counting” following the molestation discovery. The network introduced “Jill & Jessa: Counting On” as a replacement series last fall. The program followed several of Josh’s adult siblings and featured the occasional cameo from Anna, 27.

Josh and Anna opened up about their struggles in a May 27 statement on the Duggar family’s website. The pair said they are working alongside a professional marriage and family counselor and taking “important steps towards healing.”

“It isn’t easy and some days are very difficult. It is a long road to rebuild trust and a truly healthy relationship. We are very thankful for God’s forgiveness, grace and help, as it is our strength and guide to rebuilding our lives,” they wrote. The statement ended with them thanking fans for their support and prayers for their four children, Mackynzie, 6; Michael, 4; Marcus, 3, and Meredith, 10 months.

While Josh is rumored to be twitching to return to airwaves, it’s unknown if any of the Duggars will be coming back to the small screen. Following the success of the “Counting On” special in 2015, TLC ordered a full season of the series, which premiered in March. The network has yet to announce a Season 2 but the Duggars have been campaigning for a renewal.