Many of you have shared your desire for Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar to take more of a lead role in Counting On, as they did in 19 Kids and Counting. If you were the producer of the show, how would you balance screen time between the Duggars, Dillards, and Seewalds? What sort of footage would you show?
P.S. Don't you just love this new photo of Jim Bob and Michelle?
Photo courtesy duggarfamily.com
I don't think I'd be saying 'more of a lead role'- but definitely would like to see more of the family, the younger kids and how mom and dad are adjusting to their family leaving the house. I would like to have Jess and Jill equal time, and the rest of the family, including Anna, as the last third. I want to see/keep up with all of them!
ReplyDeleteI'll be honest, if I were the producer I would keep it 19 kids and counting style. Family members get air time as things happen, none of this story line heavily edited stuff they are doing now. I love the Duggar's and all the extended family, so I want to see all of them. It seems like in trying to establish a story line of sorts we are really getting the short end of the stick as far as the rest of the family goes. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoy seeing Jeremy and Jinger and I want to continue to see their relationship blossom, but the producer seems to have ADD or something. Its 15-20 minutes of the new couple followed by 5-10 minutes of Ben and Jessa, and intermixed 2-3 minutes of the other siblings and maybe mom and dad if we are lucky. I know there is plenty to show of everyone, so I'm kind of confused as to why we aren't getting an entire episode of Jana and Joy redoing the guest house, or an entire episode of John David doing something else. However, I'm thankful they are still on TV.
ReplyDeleteGod bless yall
Where is the recap from last night?
ReplyDeleteIf I was producer I would include everybody.
ReplyDeleteI would add All The Duggars In.
Hi Duggars could you plz add another show.
I would like another duggar show
Personally, I don't want to see Jim Bob. But I wouldn't mind seeing more of Michelle.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. I would like more story lines with the male twins, Joy on her own( not attached to Jana) and less of Jessa and Jill. It would be nice to see the girls going out with a friend- shopping or for coffee in a real setting not scripted. Where they shop, what the boys creative interests are. Just the producers asking questions isn't ideal. Definitely Michelle, NO JB.
DeleteI don't want to see either one of them
DeleteI would definitely show more of Jim Bob and Michelle. Michelle has been on screen several times and not allowed to say anything in any of the scenes. They are still an integral part of the family. The episode last night seemed like it was a filler episode with repeats of Jill and Jessa's court ships and engagements. It would've been touching to see Ginger and her Mom and Dad have a meaningful conversation about Jeremy from the beginning but I realize that they do not have to put their whole life on television.
ReplyDeleteI'd like to see more of Michelle and Jim Bob.
ReplyDeleteDisagree - focus just on the adult kids.
DeleteI'd like to see more of Michelle and Jim Bob.
ReplyDeleteI love the whole Duggar family and an very happy to be able to keep up with them. However, I do not think Jim Bob & Michelle should take a lead role. I enjoy the older kids talking & sharing about their lives. I feel there is a lot of repetition & dragging out of the episodes. I think there has to be more to be seen with the older children. (Including maybe seeing them interact with the little ones) Again, this is no disrespect against Jim Bob & Michelle. I just enjoy the format of the next generation being the main focus. Blessings!
ReplyDeleteI fear they would lose more folks if they let the parents back in. Jim Bob and Michelle seem to be receiving as much distaste from a lot of viewers as Josh due to the way they handled, or mishandled Josh's molestation issue when he was a teen. They used to keep most everything a secret until it was revealed on the show, such as Michelle's pregnancies. Now, we all know everything before it hits the TV show. Since the show started out to be them encouraging others with their faith, maybe they could show more about the mission work they do locally. Not everyone is able to take their family on a mission trip to Central America every year. I would like to see them encouraging others to do things that an average family can do. I like their ideas of baking cookies for the first responders every Christmas. Raking leaves for elderly. Having a Widow's banquet at Valentine's. They do an incredible amount that is never shown on TV. These types of things are how you spread love and Christianity. Not watching people have babies.
ReplyDeleteNo more JB and Michelle. Can't stand the way JB treats the ADULT men pursuing his daughters. The daughters are not chattel, they are women with the right to decide their own fate.
ReplyDeleteI would say an absolute no to:
ReplyDelete- showing old scenes in new episodes;
- repeating always the same stuff (e.g.: asking who's gonna be the next to court, or if the girls have any suitor.)
- Jessa and Ben repeating that they "have a heart for adoption", when they clearly are planning their family differently.
EXACTLY
DeleteI agree. I'm so tired of the repeat footage that takes up 70% of the show. do they have that little content for a new show and are truly struggling to keep this going without all the rerun footage?
DeleteI would like Jill and Derick to explain in depth what they did during their ministry.
ReplyDeleteI would like their ministry page to post a detailed financial accounting of how the donations were spent. They are registered as a charity with the IRS and their financial statements should be public record. You can't have it both ways, be a charity and keep your accounts secret. Derick should know this, with his business background. I would believe papers filed with the IRS more than I would believe what they tried to explain themselves. We all know what sort of spin could be put on that. But IRS forms have to be signed as truthful under penalty of law. Release an accounting, please.
DeleteI won't watch if they are featured. Let the kids shine for awhile
ReplyDeleteThat is such a great picture of Michelle and Jim Bob. Wishing the best for all of the family members!
ReplyDeleteDepending what is the most recent talking of how people are dealing with Jim Bob Duggar, I maybe would have him on a limited amount of time, except for asking for courtship, marriages, weddings etc. have him play his parental part, but if the public is still unhappy with him, even though I have no problem with him, leave him limited, until you feel he is better received !
ReplyDeleteHonestly, I would not balance screen time between the Duggars, Dillards and Seewalds. If possible, the focus would be solely on the Duggars and if the Dillards tag a long great. The reason is the Dillards and Seewalds are fairly young in their marriage and added responsibility on being camera should not be their concern. They should focus on building their young love. Maybe in five years, if they wish to have their relationship broadcast on the show then so be it. Well, that is my opinion.
ReplyDeleteI really had to laugh when Jim Bob wanted Ben & Jessa to give Jinger and Jeremy "advice." After being married for -what- a year themselves at that point? They really think they have it all figured out, don't they. Ha! Ask someone married 40-50 years to give advice. That will tell the truth of what life will throw at every couple.
DeleteI really do enjoy watching this program, watching the kids as they grow up and mature into the young adults that they are but it to me feels as though something is missing from the show and that would be the Parents. Keep the focus on the kids but have more involvement from the Parents is what I would do :)
ReplyDeleteI agree.. I miss Jim Bob and Michelle. They don't do the interviews anymore and that makes a big difference for the show. It's not the same without them...
ReplyDeleteI would prefer to just see the kids now. Michelle and JimBob are kind of not as interesting as they used to be. I like to see how the younger generation is taking the things they have been so faithfully taught, and making new lives out there. They seem a bit more in tune with what's happening now in the world. I love that they show the younger siblings also.
ReplyDeleteThe show spends too much time going back in time and showing things that happened months/years ago. I only want what is happening now. How come they didn't show much time in Philly? I was looking forward to meeting Jeremy's friends, seeing Philly etc. Don't think that Michelle and JB have to be in the show any more than they are. The show is actually getting boring with so much repeated. We don't have to see what happened last week, last year, last week. Just get on with the present.
ReplyDeleteInteresting question, are the producers listening?
ReplyDeleteFor the most part, I am very much enjoying the new format. It is a very good spin off. I have enjoyed seeing Jim Bob and Michelle again in the episodes with Hunger and Jeremy.
I think the focus needs to stay focused on the older siblings and their families. The show for the most part is doing a good job. Would like to see a bit more of Joy, Janna and the older boys.
With the rest of the family, I would say in a 45 minute show, to focus about 7 minutes (so one segment between commercials) on Jim Bob, Michelle and the younger kids. I miss seeing the younger kids - Josie, Jenifer, Jordan, Johanna and Jackson. Maybe also in a 24 episode season, we could have one or two episodes that focuses on them.
But for the most part, I like the new format and I would not deviate from it too much
If I had anything to do with the show I would not show the same things over and over in one episode. You hear what is going to happen and be said. It happens and they say it then they talk about what happened and what was said. I find the redundancy unbearable.
ReplyDeleteI like the Duggers but the new show really lacks something. First of all, there are so many repeat scenes and clips. I have almost lost interest. Maybe the senior Duggers could raise the bar. Try something new.
ReplyDeleteTo be honest, reading through the comments here on several posts related to this topic, yes there are many people who want to see more of them, but many posts also indicate people want to see less of them. Perhaps you could do a poll?
ReplyDeleteMuch LESS of JB and Michelle, please.
ReplyDeleteI think the younger generation is doing a great job !
ReplyDeleteI think the younger generation is doing a great job! YOuve got plenty of staff chapters ( family members) it will not be boring.
ReplyDeleteI don't think they take the lead especially with the older kids but certainly with the younger ones. I do miss Jim Bob and especially Michelle but The Seawall and the Dillard and now Jinger and. Her future Husband should not be lessened.
ReplyDeleteAs far as I'm concerned, Duggar fans never had anything against Jim Bob and Michelle!
ReplyDeleteCritics and negative people who were never fans of the Duggars are the ones who wanted Ma and Pa Duggar to not have any screen time. But those people don't watch the show so why would producers cater to their opinions!? The fans, who are the one that tune in week after week, love them!
I think next season they should let Jim Bob and Michelle be a large part of the storyline. And just focus on them from the beginning of the season.
I want to hear more from them, I want more interviews, more stories, I want to see their lives again! The show was so much more interesting and dynamic when they were a larger part of it.
I've watched the show regularly and I don't want to see JB
DeleteCompletely agree!
DeleteAgreed!
DeleteSo very very true!
Deletenone? show is about the kids? I would show real life stories not these stories that make no sense.
ReplyDeleteI would love to see a day in the life of the duggars still at home.
ReplyDeleteLeave Jim Bob off
ReplyDeleteI doubt they'll get more screen time. In fact I believe TLC limits their screen time on purpose...they want more of the kids filmed and not the parents. Look at all the promo photos and commercials...the parents aren't in them.
ReplyDeleteNo, they can remain in a secondary role. Now is the time for their older children to lead. I'm looking forward to future engagements, marriages, babies, community building.
ReplyDeleteI like it just the way it is now. You could show them just as you have. But absolutely NO Josh right now.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely no Josh ever. If I ever see him on screen, over, finshed, never ever again I'll watch
DeleteI think JB and M should stay out of it as much as possible. It is the grown kids show and they are doing well. The boys are really doing well and coming out of their shyness. Do miss Anna, but understand why she is not doing the show this season.
ReplyDeleteGreat question! My screen-time ideal is 50% Jinger & Jeremy, 10% Jessa & Ben, 10% Jill & Derick, 20% Jana and 10% John David. Every scene would be the couples showing physical affection and the singles actively fielding suitors.
ReplyDeleteEdited to add: As a faithful viewer since "14 Children and Pregnant Again," I wish to thank TLC for "Counting On." What can we loyal fans do to generate more revenue so TLC can film and air the amount of footage we've enjoyed in the past?
DeleteThe focus on the grown up Duggar kids has been very enjoyable. We've seen Jim Bob and Michelle in recent Jinger/Jeremy courtship story lines and I must admit I prefer the shows that focus solely on the next generation. The oldest four girls and Anna are an absolute delight as are the older brothers and the spouses. The balance, going forward, should be totally dependent on what is going in their lives. I would expect that to include some Jim Bob and Michelle sightings from time to time, but that should be exception and not the rule.
ReplyDeleteI loved 19 kids and counting. Still watch it all the time. I loved how it was produced. That to say I love Counting on, and how it is produced. I look at them as 2 different shows. So I think the producers do a great job. I wish we could see more of Jim Bob and Michelle,but understandably I feel like this show is for the young adult Duggars. I miss seeing the little ones too!
ReplyDeleteMuch as I love them, I think JimBob and Michelle have had their time. It's the kids' turn. Let them have their time.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy what they seem to be doing now. It's great to be seeing the new families with their children & husband's (Jessa's, Jill's & soon to be Jinger's). I'm enjoying getting glimpses of the other older kids. To add the rest of the family Duggar family would be great as well, maybe a half hour occasionally could show their personalities.
ReplyDeleteI love to see all the Duggars and extended family. Maybe a 15 min segment on Michelle & Jim Bob then on the girls marriages. It would be better than recapping previous episode segments. Want new footage in new episodes. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteNope, nope, nope and nope. I lost all respect I had for the parents with the way they handled the Josh issue. As Christians, we are taught to be honest, the Holy Spirit guides us that way. That they handled it so dishonestly and poorly says much about their true character. The bible tells us we are known by our fruits. Yes it was a mistake, it is in the past, but it really opened my eyes to who they really are. Watching now, I cringe with the rude comments the father makes to Jeremy. I would be proud if my daughter was marrying a pastor, what a high calling! To sit and criticize the amount of money he makes was appalling. I would expect that from a non-Christian... certainly not a believer. And the comment about them "swapping spit"to his parents, I cringed. What poor taste. In my opinion we see way too much of the parents as it is. Sorry, don't mean to offend, but the scales have fallen off my eyes, and I am truly seeing them for what they are. Love love love the Jeremy Jinger relationship though. What a true example of a Christian relationship being seen. You can tell they love each other, yet respect each other enough to know boundaries need set. I love that they are setting their own boundaries. Perfect for the world to see you can have a relationship that is lovely and pure and God-centered. Praying God's greatest blessings on them as they move forward in life.
ReplyDeleteMuch less Jill and Jessa in all regards, and only discuss Jinger when a major announcement is coming regarding her courtship/engagement. A lot more Joy and Jana. People love them, but they are put on the back burner way too often.
ReplyDeleteI'm more interested in watching the older siblings which was the reason for the show. The parents have had their time. Jim seems more out of touch to reality then in years past.
ReplyDeleteThey need to learn how to trust their kids better judgement and put some faith into them.
It's quite unrealistic for all the haters to demand no 'air time' for the parents. In REAL LIFE where families are close and interact many of them do so daily and are constantly running in and out of each other's lives at the drop of a hat. All these people who are still vindictive over stuff in the Duggar family that really has nothing to do with anyone but the family need to stop being so hateful and start minding their own business. Their hatred of religion and family and whatever else needs to find a more appropriate outlet than trolling the Duggar family and being hateful.
ReplyDeleteThis family is just doing what most of us do each day. Trying to show God's love to others. Being kind. Interacting and just living life day to day and in that dealing with whatever it throws at you and not giving up.
Hang in there Duggar family. You are still admired by many and be encouraged that God never gives up on us.
Amen, to that.
DeleteAmen.
DeleteThe tv show IS NOT real life. The show has SCRIPTED scenes. TLC has filmed for so long hat their every day life would be reruns. And as fans have been complaining that they keep seeing the same clips over and over, TLC will come up with ideas and have the Duggars do it. ALL reality shows are scripted at some point...maybe perhaps with the exception of the show cops. If you watch the show carefully, you'll notice the different takes that were filmed. Arms that are crossed in one shot but when they change angles, the arms are open. Or someone's purse appears in the same shot where it wasn't previously three seconds ago. Reality shows are not true reality.
DeleteThey should have no part in Counting On.
ReplyDeleteI am at a place where I prefer to see the older sons/daughters and their families. Sometimes Jim Bob is so inappropriate with his comments. On the other hand, Michelle is always thoughtful and kind.
ReplyDeleteit doesn't seem to matter anymore if I see the episodes or not..it just isn't the same,I really do miss the way the way they took us thru their lives on 19kids over counting on,tho I do understand either way they couldn't have Josh on..
ReplyDeleteMy personal opinion with Counting On is the show takes too long to get to the point (Jinger's engagement) over multiple shows (drags on). It would be better if new things happened quicker because it gets boring. I thought on the last show, Jinger was going to get the proposal and they saved it for the next show.
ReplyDeleteThat's because TLC doesn't have anything else to show and they need to drag out the proposal.
DeleteMichelle never gets old. She looks amazing! I'm not sure what they should do but I do miss the other little ones like Josie. I'm a fan of the whole family although I do have the opinion that Josh needs to be alone with his family. But the rest of the family is fine in my opinion.
ReplyDeletePersonally, i would love to keep up with the original duggar family, the seawards, and the dillards. I would like most of the footage to be on the seewalds. I think 1/2 seward, 1/4 duggar, and 1/4 dillard would be nice. Or just 1/3 of all of them. lol
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't show the parents at all. This program started out as being about the grown kids. TLC should have stuck to that formula, and shown story lines without the parents at all.
ReplyDeleteThey got a boost with Jinger getting engaged. You could tell before that, they were stretching for something to film and obviously scripting scenes. If what those kids do all day naturally without TLC interfering was too dull for TV, then there shouldn't have been a show in the first place. If you have to stage things to film, why bother? Viewers can spot that a mile away, and they don't appreciate insincerity or deception.
If I were a producer, I wouldn't have even started a second show. I would have said this is a family with major problems, so it's time to turn off the cameras and let them heal in private. Why they had to continue to film has never been explained. Maybe it was a contractual thing; maybe Jim Bob threatened to sue if they didn't; maybe they really thought it would be interesting showing the older kids; maybe TLC upper management has no clue these days. Who knows. But what's certain are the ratings, which have been bad and getting worse. TLC has run out of new things to show. They're relying heavily on recaps and old footage. The show is moribund and needs to be ended. I really hope there is no Season 3. Find another deserving family of some sort and make an uplifting show about them. It's time. Past time.
I hope you publish this comment, and even more, I hope TLC reads it...and does something about this show.
I would like for TLC maybe start off with several specials shows and have the whole family (except Josh's family.)
ReplyDeleteI think us fans would be all in. I noticed on social media last night after the show saying cancel are the haters. It's not fare for us fans not to see the duggars show.
They don't have to turn it on and all tvs have a remote or some way of changing chanels. I say bring the duggars back PLEASE TLC
I'd make a Duggar channel where it was Duggars 24/7/365!!!! Love my Duggars!!
ReplyDeleteLike just put surveillance cameras in their house and live-stream them 24/7? Now that would be interesting!!
DeleteThank you, Annique, for the best suggestion of all! For me, that would be heaven on earth.
DeleteDon't keep playing the same footage over and over...if you watch it every week, you don't need to see the same footage over and over. I would like to see some footage of the family's daily life, similar to in 19 kids and counting.
ReplyDeleteI think I would just leave them off the show for now. Perhaps down the road they can appear for short intervals.
ReplyDeleteA little bit of each and all the kids too. I enjoy seeing all the Duggars!
ReplyDeleteI love the Duggars,however people have been so cruel that I don't know why they would even want a TV show.
ReplyDeleteMay love win over hate. The world needs the light they shine.
DeleteHonestly, I like the show without them better, particularly Jim Bob. I think the adult children are more themselves without him around.
ReplyDeleteI'm enjoying the show without these two on it. Let the adult children be adults. They don't need their father constantly controlling their every move, especially the girls. I'm truly enjoying the show not having to see him controlling the adults in the family and them doing things without his approval.
ReplyDeleteAgreed
DeleteI really enjoy hearing the older Duggar kids speak for themselves. I do not miss hearing from Jim Bob and Michelle. I think they have sometimes been over-involved in their older kids lives. I have enjoyed watching Jeremy be his own man and stand up to Jim Bob with respect and kindness. Derick and Jeremy left home to live in the world before marraige. I think living away from home before marraige can be a very positive experience because it can teach you to become more aware of and dependent on God.
ReplyDeleteI would probably balance screen time according to what fans wanted to see.
There were people on this blog recently who doubted that anyone could tell what the Duggars were doing when not shown on TV. This photo, along with many others like it, is how you can know what the Duggars are up to. Once again, you will notice that they're not at home.
ReplyDeleteThey keep everyone so informed through social media that they don't even need a TV show. By the time that's on, it's all old news.
DeleteLove love love Michelle!!!
ReplyDeleteShe has taught me so much just by watching her interact with her family.
I really want to see her and hear her a lot more often than we have.
I would love to see a little bit of everything going on in the married kids lives but definitely I would mostly like to see Michelle and her family still living at home and what their daily routine looks like now that the oldest ones are getting married. I would also like to see Josh and Anna. Love the picture by the way!
Ditto to everything you said! Daily routine with Michelle and the little ones learning and growing is sweeter to watch. Check in with the older ones occassionally.
DeleteI don't know. I think the producers are doing a great job. I am thankful TLC is doing this. I love getting to know the kids better. I think they are doing a phenominal job. Love this family!!
ReplyDeleteI understand it's about the "kids" and their new lives as adults, but we miss the great parents who raised them! How about some snippets at least of how they feel about their emptying nest, how they feel about Jill being so far away, what they thought initially of the 2 1/2 yr age difference between Ben and Jessa, ANYTHING! I miss hearing their voices, Michelle's laugh, Jim Bob's wisdom, and his jokes. We just miss them.
ReplyDeleteI would love to see them featured more on the show counting on.
ReplyDeleteI agree, I miss the home life being part of the show. I think it should be 50/50, half the Duggar house hold and half of the older kids and their lives. The best part of the show was watching how a household with that many people functions, it's not the same without the whole family.
ReplyDeleteI agree with this, too. I would like to see more of the Duggars and their household. Their daily lives and as a previous comment mentioned how the family has adjusted and is adjusting as different one are marrying and moving out.
DeleteLet me just say don't listen to all the hate that I keep seeing on FB. True fans want to see everyone in the family. I have loads of opinions on how to make the show "better" I.e TLC needs to stop repeating sentences over & over. Fans know what courtship is, we don't need all the kids to tell us what it is. Less couch time, more substance!! We love Michelle & Jim Bob, I didn't appreciate the awkward scene w/Jeremy though. I think having the kids ask for their parents advice wld be a great way to incorporate them. Follow Jeremiah & Jedidiah if they choose to go to college or that 9 week training Joe did. The camp episode wasn't that great. The editing just made it look like no one wanted to be there (esp Jinger)..show us what Jackson is doing. We liked seeing when the Duggar's are just living regular life; mission trips, grocery shopping, cooking..I love the show, but TLC has to stop repeating...it's annoying TLC!
ReplyDeleteI love, love the show and I do miss Jim Bob and Michelle. As producers I wish you would show the whole family, but NOT Josh. Love the girls show counting on but do miss Jim Bob, Michelle and the other kids. I will admit I would not watch any episodes with Josh. Would love to see Anna and kids.
ReplyDeleteP.S. You have had us all watching this show since these kids were really little. Don't stop now. We all want to see how they grow up, what they are doing, watching their married life. It's like reading a book and not knowing the ending. Just don't let Josh be in any episodes.
ReplyDeleteI would love to see that and less screens repeated over and over again....
ReplyDeleteIt's over board how many times it re shows the same bit.
I'd also enjoying see more of that awesome tree house and projects like Jana's garden and any tips
I'd love to see more of them too!! The boys projects like the treehouse and Jana's garden and tips. The other suggestion I have is please please stop repeating the same screen or clip over and over again it makes me not want to watch. It's like it's the only way they can fill the time or something.
ReplyDeleteCounting on is supposed to be about the "next generation" so it should be more focused on the young adults and less on their parents. Their parents should only be on as needed such as Jeremy asking permission to court Jinger.
ReplyDeleteMichelle and Jim Bob look great! And what a beautiful place they're in.
ReplyDeleteI think I'd have the majority of the focus still be on the Seewalds and the Dillards, as well as the older kids, since they've been the main focus of Counting On. Maybe 30% Seewald, 30% Dillard, 20% older kids and how they're staying busy, and 20% Jim Bob/Michelle/younger kids. Of course one of the benefits of a big family is there is always lots going on, and plenty of people to check up on!
I stuck by the Duggars through all the mess about Josh, etc. but the fact that their girls were not given the counseling that they needed really has turned me off to Jim Bob especially. I like having the kids from 17 on up and I sure like to see them create their own lives. I like it that Ginger's courtship is different. Would like to see more of Jill and Derick too.
ReplyDeleteJust wondering how Jingers courtship is different? Sorry I haven't been able to see any of the shows where I live and I rely on the recaps...
DeleteAccording to the interesting things that are going on in their lives. Please stop the reruns of the couples past events:courtships, engagements and weddings, etc. Keep things current with their lives today and we all will continue to enjoy your lives and witness for Christ
ReplyDeleteI would go into each respective home more, show what they're involved in currently. Share more moments with the younger kids & babies. A little less time on just one person, even if that person is in a courtship. Mix it up!
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed following this family- watching joys, sorrow, trials and triumphs. Pretty much covered it, asked it, asked it again, repeated answers, repeated them again...The only footage and screen time balance would be a 20/20 TV special in 10 yrs. When the show is no more we still have your blog...and their blogs too! I wish them all the best as they come into their own serving Jesus and others where they are.
ReplyDeleteKatie M.
I'm fine without including the rest of the family in Counting On.
ReplyDeleteI actually like it that Jim Bob and Michelle are more in the background now. I enjoy hearing more from all of the older kids. In other words, the way it is done right now works for me!
ReplyDeleteNO!,Counting On is great just like it is now! All of the kids seem like they are more comfortable without JB and Michelle around. A cameo appearance every now and then is enough for me!
ReplyDeleteOh, I have no idea. But, I would love, love, love to see them!! Balance it in any way...we love your family :)
ReplyDeleteI'm really enjoying the new format, focusing on the older kids as they begin their adult lives and having them take the lead. However, I miss seeing Michelle's involvement, as well as the younger children. When you've been a fan of the show from the beginning and witnessed the joys and heart aches you really do feel a strong sense of connection. I am grateful that TLC has allowed us to rekindle that connection and that the Duggar's are still willing to share their family with us. Good bless!
ReplyDeleteHeartily agreed!: "When you've been a fan of the show from the beginning ... you really do feel a strong sense of connection. I am grateful that TLC ... and ... the Duggars are still willing to share their family with us."
DeleteI think this needs to be mostly about the married girls and their families, and the older kids. I think Josh and Anna need to bow out until they can prove that all is well and Josh is cured!
ReplyDeleteYou can never prove that he's cured. You can only look backwards at the end of every day and say, "Well, he didn't go astray today." And then you keep your fingers crossed for the next 24 hours.
DeleteI agree with that but that Josh should bow out permanently.
DeleteI agree! I don't believe he is cured but being watched like a hawk.
DeleteBeautiful couple with a beautiful family. I love seeing all the family on the show! God Bless them!
ReplyDeleteI like seeing the adult kids only. Keep the parents with very limited show time.
ReplyDeleteSuch a lovely photo of them both:) Why can't the producers question Michelle and Jim Bob on aspects of their and their families life now and on topics that they feel comfortable discussing. They could show them partaking in events with their family - and not just as background characters who are given a line or two to share or as a decorative figure in the background. I really hope they get more air time, I want to see and hear more from Mom and Dad Duggar!
ReplyDeleteI think Mom & Dad Duggar have more important things to do with their time than be on TV.
DeleteEllie, are you quitting this blog? How come you haven't posted a new episode summary from Tuesday?
ReplyDeleteHi there,
DeleteNope, I'm not quitting the blog. My husband and I were in Oregon for my brother's wedding and we ran into some technical difficulties that prevented me from writing a recap, but I'm working on it now. :)
Ellie
Awesome! I hope you guys had fun! :D
DeleteThank you sincerely, Lily and Ellie, for everything you do to run this upstanding blog!
DeleteI think for the show to continue to survive, JB & M time should remain on a more casual basis and the focus should be on the older kids and how their lives change as they grow and move on.
ReplyDeleteA good example of how this can be accomplished is to just watch a few Bringing Up Bates episodes. Those producers have the right take on balance and what works.
ReplyDeleteThat's is exactly what I have been saying, they cram more new material in a half hour show than Counting on does in an hour.The couch interviews with the littles reminds me of Jackson and Johanna when they did theirs...it was so funny and spontaneous, not guarded and rehearsed.
DeleteI agree! Love "Bringing Up Bates" and their honesty and humor.
DeleteI would have exactly half the time spent at the Duggar home filming the parents and all the other Duggar children,and then the other half split between Dillard's and Seewald's. I think many people feel OVER saturated with the seewald's! But yes as to the picture I love seeing the Duggar parents they always make me smile.
ReplyDeleteJim Bob and Michelle are the anchors of this family (even the extended families with the married children) and they need a bigger role on the show. They need to anchor the shows like they did on 19 kids. I loved the interviews on the old show with all of the family members. TLC should have never canceled 19 kids and why in the world they have not had Jim Bob and Michelle on the new show is beyond me! TLC needs to bring in Jim Bob and Michelle in a big way. They also need to add the little kids in the show. We also miss the interviews with them.
ReplyDeleteI think what most viewers forget is that this show is about the older children.. I love the parents and how they show love towards every child, however I love this show more because it strictly focuses on the children and how they're adapting into life.. We get to see what they like to do rather than having their parents tell us.
ReplyDeleteThere would never have been two shows revolving around the Duggar family had it not been for Michelle and Jim Bob. I personally feel they should be part of the show along with their children still at home in addition to those who have gotten married and moved out of the house. Many thousands have come to know the family and have been encouraged from all they have shared. None of us are perfect, therefore, none of us should be judgmental! As a Christian, the Bible clearly states we should not judge lest we be judged!! That. Being said, many of us viewers would like updates on the younger children still at home, including what is going on in their lives. Jim Bob and Michelle should be applauded for their efforts in raising Godly children in a world that promotes a lack of morals and Bible principles. They give freely of their time and their hearts to others, imitating Jesus example. The wisdom they have gained from having a large family can benefit many, whether it be spiritual, financial, practical, or life lessons. There are not enough positive shows on TV in today's society. This is one of just a handful of positivity! Jim Bob and Michelle deserve to be in every episode, not as bystanders but front and center. They are, after all, the core of this family! Leading, directing, and sharing their love for God and others....and even sharing their trials as welll as compassion and forgiveness of others. What a blessing and treasure the entire Duggar family is to us all!
ReplyDeleteI don't see how "judge not lest we be judged" applies to things like TV shows.
DeletePlease tell TLC you are losing viewers...the Producers need to give us substance. Read the Facebook comments. The show is boring, repetitive to the point of nausea... With all the family members and all their activities there has to be more to tell ... flash backs over and over...stupid interviews about hair color preferences...really? Puleeeze bring back the Duggars we know and love...Leave JOSH out for sure but you are losing viewers!!!!! Lots of them!!!
ReplyDeleteAgree, there is so much they could show them doing.With all their skills they could build a tornado shelter or add on to the coumpound.Why not change the outside house color,paint the door change the shutters,redecorate the whole inside of the house too, they can afford to really change things up. Go on another big family vacation to Australia or somewhere completely foreign to their norm. There is so much they can do.Come on TLC amp it up, there is only so much courting and thrift shopping we can take.Those awful questions, been there,heard that.Maybe ask the hard questions, not so much fluff.I don't get how they took the time to remodel Jessa and Ben's home but not do the outside, we seen it for years as Josh and Anna's, so when they show the outside I still think of it as Josh's. Make it new and the Seewalds own style.The outside really needs an overhaul anyways, landscaping ect.Just some thoughts.Hope TLC is listening.
DeleteI agree with this posting done on Oct 6.
DeleteAGREE!!! They need to send Jana and Joy to college and see what adventures they have. That would be way more entertaining than the boring missing a flight mixed with flashbacks.
DeleteTLC brings idas to the aduggars and then they film the Duggars doing it. This show is not their real life.
DeleteThis comment is spot on. There are too many recaps and flash backs, and very little new footage is filmed. It's not the same.
DeleteThe show is missing something without Jim Bob and Michelle and the young kids.
ReplyDeleteMy young children used to love watching, but now they are not as excited bc we don't get to see the little adventures and fun with the little ones.
I very much enjoy watching the relationships play out but I also crave to hear Jim Bobs and Michelle's voice and comments. They definently need to slow down on rehashing old footage and add in Jim Bob and Michelle!!!!!
Michelle looks amazing!! They are such an example of a Christian couple. I feel sorry for them always having to be in the limelight and being judged by the public. They are human beings just like the rest of us, we can't judge them for something their adult son did.
ReplyDelete~Caitlin
You feel sorry for them always HAVING to be in the limelight? Like someone forced them to be on TV?
DeleteOh wait, maybe someone did. :(
Nobody's forcing them to be in the limelight, in fact a lot of people would be very happy if they were never heard from again LOL
DeleteDon't feel sorry for them because they chose to be in the limelight. They decided to go public with their lives. They were given an opportunity of a lifetime, and I'm sure they discussed the good and bad before they signed their contract with TLC. I wonder how many couples would have stayed together if they had walked in Jim Bob and Michelle's shoes? Their house is built on the rock of Jesus Christ. No matter what anyone thinks, their testimony cannot be taken from them.
DeleteThey dont "have" to be in the limelight. That is a personal choice which they pursued for many years and for enormous financial gain. The choice to call it all off at any time was always there.
DeleteI would like to see all of the Duggar children involved more in the show...less time on the Seewalds and Dillards.:)
ReplyDeleteI do like seeing he kids or young adults station g their married lives. But I do miss 19kids and counting. But I would like to see each show devote time to the singles kids. Like follow each for a day. Like a day in the life of Jana? Then next episode day in the life of Jed? And so on. Because I don't think we really know that much of Jana. I'm sure she has alot to share if and only if she wanted to share that with us.
ReplyDeleteMichelle never ages. She looks very healthy and she has a great smile. They are a nice looking couple. Jim Bob is aging a little...maybe high blood pressure, I wonder.
ReplyDeleteOut the entire family back on. So what mistakes were made. In reality those things happen in real families and perhaps it would be good to see how others handle situations like that. I would like to see Jim Bob and Michelle more.
ReplyDeleteI like how much it has been showing people but always want to see more Jana, she is my favorite!
ReplyDeletei like to see the whole family...reality TV is just that "REALITY"
ReplyDeleteBeing that the show is about the older kids I feel having the Parents take a more leadership role would be wrong. I did enjoy 19 Kids and counting and if they wanted to bring that back as well I would also watch it. I feel the show needs to take a more in depth approach as to their everyday happenings. The ministry work or day to day life, what are they doing to support themselves. Who are they dating or considering to date etc..
ReplyDeleteI would love to see more of Jim Bob and Michelle and the whole family. Seeing all the flashbacks made me miss them more!
ReplyDeleteYes!!! I miss 19 kids and Counting for the sole fact that Jim Bob and Michelle were in it. Well actually, I miss all of them. I am the same age as... Justin? I'm 13. And it is so cool to see how other kids my age live and function in a really huge family like their's. I am an only child, and I am homeschooled, so sometimes my mother lets me watch a "Duggar" ( that's what we call their show) on my brake. But since I am an only child sometimes I get bored, and I like to watch another family- that I kind of consider like my friends. :)I mean I have friends and all but most of them go to school.
ReplyDeleteI don't really care to see JB.
ReplyDeleteIt would be nice to see the little kids again and to see how the family is changing as people leave the nest. The main thing I would change about the show is cut back on the recycled footage. It's gotten to where it's hard to tell that these are new episodes since most of it is just old stuff, or interviews with people speculating about their siblings, not really doing anything of interest.
ReplyDeleteyes. Show the whole family. There is a reason the Lord gives us struggles maybe they can help us all handle something in our own life. They have been a great opportunity to show something good from a rough situation.
ReplyDeleteI agree with many here. I like the new format, but I would love to see a little more of their parents. Michelle seems like she's afraid to say anything in front of the cameras (and I don't blame her, after what they've been through), but I miss her sweet, wise example. Maybe an interview question here or there, like "what do you think about Jeremy?" or "what have you and the younger kids been up to lately?" or something.
ReplyDeleteMajority of us want to see a bit of all of them,,,We started our "fanship" with the whole family,,,,,,,TLC should focus on different elements each week,,,,,including Jim Bob and Michelle,,,,,the older kids have interesting lives now and we the fans want to follow them all. Overall they are a great family with some sad and difficult times; all families do have them! Love seeing how this family has grown and dealt with the good as well as the bad.
ReplyDeleteThe whole premise of the show was how a super-sized family manages day-to-day. That's gone now. If you want to see how newlyweds and young families manage, just look to your friends and family. Nothing novel anymore.
ReplyDeleteI like seeing the entire family. One thing I would change is less repetition. Cut out the recaps after every commercial break. Just move on with more content. Miss hearing the kids sing and play music.
ReplyDeleteCourtships, proposals, weddings, childbirth, babies, shopping, manicures and pedicures, hairstyling... surely there must be more to their lives. Hard to relate to a family who has grown children still living at home and where so much time is spent filming such mundane activities. I don't think this show will be around long.
ReplyDeleteI would love to see 25% Jim Bob, Michelle and younger kids; 25% Dillards; 25 % Seewalds; and 25% Jinger and Jeremy.
ReplyDeleteCounting on..show all the kids. I agree no Josh but Anna and their children should be including.I love the Jill&Jessa stories but I also have been watching 19kids almost since the beginning and I love to continue to watch all the kids grow up and become adults.I think each episode should be a different set of kids. This week older married kids,next week middle kids,following week little kids,then back to older kids.break it up a litle.
ReplyDeleteYou should make two hour shows which have a bit of all the Duggars. I have missed the show so much!
ReplyDeleteI really like seeing Anna, but I definitely don't want to see josh. I don't want him to come on the tv and say he's repented and he's going to heal his marriage blah blah blah. Everything that his family and TLC want him to say. I'm sorry, but I don't feel like Josh has really repented yet. It feels like he is only playing the part and would still be doing what he was if he hadn't been caught. But more Anna please, because she is kind and wise. I also love Jill - she is so grounded and authentic. Jess's and Ben are ok too. But Jinger is kinda getting annoying. The giggly love struck girl gets old quickly. I would like to see her use a little sense. Thanks for the question!
ReplyDeleteMichelle is my favorite TV mom ever. I would love to see her interacting with the grandkids more and talking about the adjustment seeing her daughters become mothers and the advice she's giving them as new moms.
ReplyDeleteI would arrange it thematically taking the focus off marriage, courting and having kids. Put focus on kids leaving, community involvement, transitioning from home school to adult work - what are the challenges and why does it work, forgiveness - little kid stories of forgiveness; how the family handles disagreements; has fame changed them; how do they monitor cell phone usage; how does the family deal with social media; talk about prayer; is Joseph preaching - can we see him preach; teach us about home churches; there is so much they could teach about the Christian faith. More than marriage, courting and babies.
ReplyDeleteI never noticed until this picture the resemblance between Michelle and Jill! Especially the mouth/smile.
ReplyDeleteThe show is now boring- repeated scenes making it especially so. There is a sense that something isn't right besides, the whole family are not shown. There is an over focus on 'when will the next one get married' etc .... The bible clearly states that neither being single or married are to be held in any more/less esteem than the other so i would love to see this biblical truth being carried out throughout the show - quit the silly 'are you courting' or 'who do you think is next questions' ..... Also I'm very certain that as Christians we should be careful as to how we live our lives being on a to program weekly especially young beliebers/children who will and do make mistakes is poor judgement on the part of the parents - we do not know how our children will turn out however much we try we cannot make them 'good Christians' - it is a work of grace and as a Christian myself, young and yes married in my scenario who makes mistakes daily as I'm a sinner saved by grace, still fighting with the old man ..... I as much as I like and liked this show feel it needs to come to a close so that these young ppl can focus on their walk, their kids, their futures (be it a life with a career/volunteer role/even marriage) without the pressure of being filmed and their mistakes becoming permanent issues instead of innocent mistakes (I do not refer to josh that was major) but with every word being judged and action they are tied up in this program and it is I holding them all back - how can parents chastise their children as they need to on camera? those kids need to be able to live as normal kids not the 'kids from that show' .... I much preferred them in the early days despite their old fashioned clothing etc they seemed much more genuine and less concerned about makeup/money/clothes and the rest..... Im bored of shopping trips, makeup and clothing..... What's with the expensive engagements/weddings what happened to 'reality' .... Very few girls get that lifestyle they are just promoting a new kind of Cinderella reality show
ReplyDeleteQuit repeating the same things.
ReplyDeleteQuit asking about new courting.
Quit asking over and over about pregnancy.
Follow their real life unscripted.
Quit using so much valuable time for a build up episode like the proposal. Just film and play as it happens. Fans will watch if it's the first of the season, last of the season or in the middle. If they keep repeating the same things they will lose viewers.
I' m happy to watch all or any of them; IF the producers would stop having them repeat what we've all heard all of the same in the past!
ReplyDeleteI'd be happy to watch all of them; IF they'd be honest with us!
I would love to see more of the Duggar family involved in the show.
ReplyDeleteThe new Counting On show is nothing but recaps, over and over and over again...........either make it a 30 min. show or film more new material!
ReplyDeleteI would like to see Michelle spending time with Jill and Jessa and the two grandsons, going for a walk, reading stories, playing games, going to the park for some fun, and really spending time together. Watch Spurgeon and Israel together. Or watch Michelle in the kitchen with her two daughters. Or the adults going out for dinner together, Jill & Derrick, Jessa & Ben, JB & Michelle.
ReplyDeleteIt would be great to see less repetition on the show. Personally I'm ok with Michelle appearing occasionally but my blood boils when JB is on. I like seeing the oldest girls the most.
ReplyDeleteNo no no please don't bring back Jim Bob and Michelle, continue to focus on the older kids.
ReplyDeleteNo Michelle and Jim Bob. I am more interested in the kids. Would like to hear from Anna once in a while.
ReplyDeleteNo more Jim Bob and Michelle on TV. They had their run. They made enough mistakes. It's time for them to focus on their remaining kids at home and not their TV careers. Before they know it, the kids will all be grown, and then what? Regrets? They've already sold off enough of their family's life. The whole family, not just the parents, should stop the TV appearances and focus on their own lives privately. They've lost track of what's important. It's not publicity, ratings, or piles of money. As good Christians, they should already know that. They should know about avarice (greed) and envy (wanting what someone else has). If the producers or even the Duggars are reading this, then there's my opinion, which I think represents what a lot of other people feel, too.
ReplyDeleteI thought just the reverse.. Jim Bob looks same as always and Michelle looks tired..like she is feeling stress and after effects of family troubles.
ReplyDeleteIf they are on the show more I will quit watching. They seem to dominate every episode they have been on so far which puts the older kids I'm the secondary role.
ReplyDeleteI might be misremembering but I feel like this isn't the first time the authors of this blog have asked a similar question or lamented the lack of Jim Bob and Michelle on the show. Is there a reason for this? It seems that there are plenty of people who want to see them back on, but just as many who don't, or who are happy with the show as it is now. I guess I'm just questioning the motive of trying to push Jim Bob and Michelle on us. Have they requested that you ask this question?
ReplyDeleteNo, please no, JB and Michelle!!!!
ReplyDeleteYou are not going to gain viewers by adding the parents. You gain viewers by focusing on how the children are planning to grow their independence away from their parents.
ReplyDeleteI think they all should be able to be on the show, yes even Josh. It's like he has vanished and I don't get it. Infidelity is wrong and deceitful but how many other shows are on tlc that have people doing the same. As far as what he did when he was 12 or 13 that should have been sealed and it's terrible but as long as he's healed from that it could be a great blessing to some couples who are trying to save their marriage to see a little of them working things out. Just my opinion. I get it may be to risky but people have been against this family from the beginning because of their dedication to serve the Lord. They have been persecuted for not being perfect. If feel that josh's parents did more than most would have. Think of this were your 12yr old. Would you share it? They took action.I don't think most would have done everything they did. He was wrong but he was a kid and if all is forgiven and the victims are ok with it then I don't see why he has to be shunned from the show. Maybe there should be two shows because there are so many families branching out. It would be a great idea to do a documentary on Josh and Anna when the time is right and maybe go from there. I know of other shows where the person who did the same thing to underage girls and he was fully grown and confessed to it. They still have reruns of that show every week day on the UP channel. What he did was wrong and disgusting but there are people who could benefit from seeing the family overcome this. Jim Bob and Michelle are not perfect but they put forth so much effort into their parenting and have prayed and tried to make the right decisions and I feel they deserve to be more apart of the show or have their own show.
ReplyDeleteHi Lilly and Ellie,
ReplyDeleteWhere did you first get the idea that people want to see more of JB and Michelle? I've seen people asking about the children, but never the parents.
I think we have seen a lot of JB&M over the years, but never enough of the younger ones. They seem to have disappeared from Counting On. Why is that? I understand about the parents but not the children. They didn't do anything wrong after all.
No more JB or Michelle or I won't watch. No Josh. I am really getting tired of all the repeat footage. This last week I just about turned off the show it was ridiculous. Focus on the older kids. I'm not interested in their views on courting (does son A want a blonde or brunette?). That sounded like a dating tape. The boys are inexperienced and know nothing of dating so to ask these questions is insane. Show more substance - how do the older kids manage their finances - do they get an allowance or are they allowed to spend their TLC earnings as they see fit. Are they investing (we read Jana bought a local business). These are the things of interest to viewers who watched them since they were little kids. The made up/scripted episodes written by the producers (camping, girls trips, redecorating) are really getting old.
ReplyDeleteThe show is pretty much mind numbingly boring. But, that is because it ran it's course a while ago, not because JB and Michelle aren't on it much. I think keeping them in a background role, with very few appearances, is best. Obviously Josh should never be spoken of or heard from. I'm not sure there is anything to make the show interesting now. Maybe show more of the "littles"... older kids can't carry the show unfortunately.
ReplyDeleteNo. They have had their time in the spotlight and it's much more interesting to focus on the older kids as they move out into the world. Which hopefully more of them will be doing.
ReplyDeleteMichelle looks amazing and so young, they have alot to celebrate these days and I am happy for them both.😁
ReplyDeleteSince Counting On was developed as a show about the adult children, there really is no need for the parents to be on at all. Most of the general TV watching public does NOT WANT to see Jim Bob and Michelle anyway. Since Jim Bob was clear to state in an earlier interview that they would be just fine if their tv show was cancelled, I don't understand why they have been fighting to get back screen time for themselves? Words and actions should not contradict one another.
ReplyDeleteJust do a combo show such as 19 kids and counting on and on ...
ReplyDeleteIf they intend to continue this show then it needs to focus on the adult siblings and their families. Jim Bob and Michelle don't need more air time. In fact, it would be best if they quit appearing altogether. They are driving off more fans than they are attracting. They definitely don't need to add Josh and Anna back to the show.
ReplyDeleteI do not like Jimbob or Michelle but in a weird way I miss them. The show is missing something. Kinda like when Michelle gets her hair redone (it looks so much better) BUT I prefer her crunchy hair. I actually miss her original hair from ten years ago
ReplyDeleteI like seeing the kids more, the adults and the grandkids.
ReplyDeleteJim Bob and Michelle do not need any screen time on "Counting On." They had their 10 years or so on air; now it is the time for their children to shine.
ReplyDeleteI think they need to see the reality and that is people have not forgiven Jim Bob and Michelle and Josh. The show is tiptoeing around the elephant in the room -- that Josh messed up. They need to bring Josh and Anna on to address it. We need to see what they are doing too if there is any hope of salvaging this thing. Right now people just think he is hiding out of shame. I would not bring Jim Bob and Michelle back much at all. Leave it focused on the adult kids and their lives with only the larger family events covered on the show being the involvement of the JimBob and Michelle family.
ReplyDeleteLeave and cleave. The kids have left the nest and that's where the interest is now. JB and Michelle need to leave and cleave from the show and find something else to do. Even when they do appear, it's the same canned conversations they always have. Stay off TV and raise the kids still at home.
ReplyDeleteThe show was re named and formatted specifically to exclude the Duggars being shown as the unit they were in 19KAC. This question is perhaps a moot point. Despite this, the newly formattted version seems to have the Duggars creeping back on camera more. Either way and to be honest as someone working in media, the program is exceedingly flat and uninteresting. Repeats of repeats of flashbacks? Previews of what will be featured in coming episode are overly inflated to arouse interest but fail to deliver when the episode is 60% flashback and repeat conversations. Perhaps the viewers would like more on the nuts and bolts stuff. How do the Dillards and Seewalds support themselves, pay for cars and travel etc. They are not mainstream income families. Of the Dillards, Seewalds and soon to be Vuolos, only one of 6 adults has some kind of job thats not been defined except that its part time. This in itself is an interesting concept considering Jim Bob gave permission for marriage of 3 daughters to 3 underemployed men.
ReplyDeleteThanks TLC for keeping us updated and for producing the show! Keep it up! Has been fun watching the kids grow up, meet their spouses, have their babies, etc. Love seeing the hearts of Jeremy and Ben and watching and seeing what God is doing in each of their lives! It has been great also seeing Jinger's heart for min istry. Love this family!
ReplyDeleteJim Bob and Michelle had their time on tv, leave it to the next generation!
ReplyDelete