'19 Kids & Counting' canceled at TLC

NEW YORK, July 16 (UPI) -- 19 Kids & Counting has been canceled at TLC.

The network announced the news Thursday, nearly two months after it was revealed star Josh Duggar molested five girls as a teenager. The reality series was placed on suspension after the scandal broke in May.

"After thoughtful consideration, TLC and the Duggar family have decided to not move forward with 19 Kids and Counting. The show will no longer appear on the air," TLC said in a statement. "The recent attention around the Duggars has sparked a critical and important conversation about child protection."

Josh Duggar admitted to the abuse after a police report detailing the incidents surfaced, and subsequently resigned from his position at the Family Research Council. Sisters Jill Duggar and Jessa Duggar were among the victims, and defended their brother amid the public outcry.

19 Kids & Counting premiered in 2008, and ran for 10 seasons. The series follows devout Independent Baptists Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar and their 19 children, including Josh Duggar, the eldest at age 27. The reality star is married to Anna Keller and expecting his fourth child.

TLC consulted with victims' rights and advocacy groups in the wake of the scandal, and will collaborate with RAINN, Darkness to Light and the Duggar family on a one-hour documentary featuring Jill Duggar, Jessa Duggar and other survivors to air later this summer.