19 Kids and Counting (TLC)
A staple to the TLC line up is 19 Kids and Counting, a series that focused on the All-American Duggar family. Parents Jim and Michelle allow camera operators into their home of 19 children. The family consists of nine girls and 10 boys, all of whom have a name that begins with J. Things were going well for the TV family until the oldest son, Josh Duggar, found himself the center of molestation accusations against one of his sisters. TLC was quick to pull the show off their lineup.
Where Are They Now?
Though TLC cancelled 19 Kids and Counting, TLC would go on to create a spin-off series focusing on two of the older female Duggar children. The series was called, Jill and Jessa: Counting On, which focused on the marriages of sisters Jill and Jessa. The one thing that the three-part series did not touch on very much was the accusations by Jill towards her older brother Josh. Since ending the series, the Duggar’s have remained somewhat out of the limelight with occasional coverage here and there.
Here Comes Honey Boo Boo (TLC)
“Where’s my go-go juice?” For a period, TLC’s Here Comes Honey Boo Boo was a major phenomenon. Honey Boo Boo was a reality show that followed a former Toddlers and Tiaras contestant Alanna and her mom, Mama June. The show’s matriarch came under fire when she began to date and brought around a convicted molester. Once this came to light for TLC, the station was quick to pull the show from their regular lineup.
Where Are They Now?
Since Honey Boo Boo left the TLC lineup, Mama June has undergone a massive transformation. She has lost over 300 lbs. and though Mama June’s relationship with a sex-offender was the reason for the show’s cancellation, she continues to maintain her relationship with Geno Doak, a convicted thief and drug user. It seems that Mama June has a thing for criminals, as all of the fathers of her daughters have a criminal background.
Paula Deen (Food Network)
Paula Deen was a major star for the Food Network. Deen often starred and hosted various cooking shows and holiday specials. For 13 years, Deen and the Food Network had a great business relationship. Things began to go south for this Southern queen when she was caught using the “N” word. This resulted in the Food Network letting the celebrity chef go, as it also came to light that Deen was also prone to use racist language on set with her production team and crew.
Though Paula Deen tried to make amends by issuing a statement, many criticized it as a half-heartedness attempt to apologize for the use of the word. Many felt that Deen tried to justify her use of the “N” word by blaming her age and generation. Today, Deen is slowly making her comeback to the limelight through clothing lines and hosting elaborate parties for clients. In 2015, Deen was selected to be one of the dancers for a reality dance show, Dancing with the Stars, in which she was eliminated from in the sixth week.
The Cosby Show (Peachtree)
The Cosby Show was an American family-show that aired in the ’80s and into the early ’90s. It focused on an upper-middle-class African American family living in New York. The family patriarch is played by Bill Cosby, who in 2015 faced a slew of allegations surrounding sexual abuse, assault and drug-facilitated sexual assault. Once trials for these allegations started to play out and more victims were coming forward, Netflix and other networks pulled the show from their lineup.
Where Are They Now?
When the judge found Bill Cosby guilty for sexual assault and the drugging of women, prosecutors were quick to move to have him put behind bars. Today, that is where Cosby remains. Though he and his legal team have tried to fight the charges, Cosby remains in prison. One of his victims, Janice Dickinson, had spoken openly and frankly on the assault she received from Cosby when she was new to Hollywood. Now, thanks to Cosby, female actresses and celebrities have taken the bold step to shed light on the sometimes-normalized abuse of men in power in the entertainment industry. Cosby joins a growing lineup of men accused of using their status and power to manipulate women.
Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (Netflix)
When Season 3 of Fresh Prince of Bel-Air hit the airwaves, fans of the show couldn’t help but notice a difference in one of the main characters. Daphne Maxwell replaced aunt Viv, initially played by Janet Hubert. The replacement of Hubert is said to have been a result of a falling out with co and lead star, Will Smith. Hubert also accused the network of trying to phase her off the show and giving her a salary cut.
Where Are They Now?
Till this day, Will Smith maintains that he had nothing to do with the release of Hubert from the show. Smith also goes on to say that it was the producers and directors of the show who were fed-up with Hubert’s negative attitude and high-maintenance behavior. Though Hubert and Smith don’t keep in touch, Hubert threw shade at Smith’s 2015 movie, Concussion, when it failed to receive an Oscar nomination, and Smith openly said he was disappointed in that decision.
Who Wants to be a Millionaire UK (ITV)
During an episode of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire UK, no one would have known or guessed that contestant Mark Ingram would cheat his way to the top. Though, the uncovering of Ingram’s nifty plan were exposed only after the episode aired. Ingram felt the consequences of getting caught cheating when it would also expose other violations by Ingram and his wife. Since then, Ingram has been known for his coughing scandal and is often regarded as the butt of many British jokes.
Where Are They Now?
After the taping of the show, production teams were reviewing the recording. During a second review of the tape, members of the production team began to notice a cough coming from the audience every time Ingram would read out the options. This discovery would eventually lead to the realization that Ingram had his wife, who sat in the audience, help him answer the questions through her coughing. Ingram would subsequently be convicted for fraud and lose his title in the British Army.
Duck Dynasty (A&E)
During a GQ interview with Duck Dynasty star, Phil Robertson, he was quoted as saying that sex between two men was a sin. Robertson’s statement was then taken to a whole new level when he compared homosexuality to bestiality, which triggered many people who took offense to this association. Though the show was not immediately taken off air for Robertson’s statements, he was suspended from taping, and his lack of presence was felt on-air.
Where Are They Now?
Though Phil Robertson was suspended from tapings, his absence from the show would slowly result in the demise and eventual end of Duck Dynasty. The show eventually ended after an incredible 11 season run. Though A&E would lose this popular reality show, the network would bring a spin-off for those missing the cast of Duck Dynasty. Jep, the youngest of the Robertson’s, would allow cameramen to follow him and his wife, Jessica, on their show,” Jep & Jessica: Growing the Dynasty,” which focused on their family. The show only lasted two seasons before it was cut.
RuPaul’s Drag Race (OutTV)
During the 4th season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, fans of the show witnessed the first-ever disqualification of a contestant. Willam, a fan favorite was ousted by RuPaul during an elimination; it was also one that Willam was not even part of. Though the reason was not disclosed during the episode, on a special reunion episode, it was discovered Willam had violated one of the rules. Not long after he confessed to the production team about the rule-breaking, was he removed from the competition.
Where Are They Now?
Before joining the cast of RuPaul, Willam was considered one of the highest-paid Britney Spears impersonators in Las Vegas. Today, Willam travels the world as drag queen and performer. She still does her Britney Spears routine; however, on occasion, performs original material. With or without RuPaul’s Drag Race, Willam was sure to catch the attention of America. Though RuPaul has gone on to do more seasons of the drag competition, Willam’s disqualification is still talked about and referenced.
Dance Moms (TLC)
Abby Lee Miller is an American dance instructor and choreographer, and she also is the owner of Reign Dance Productions. In 2011, Miller appeared on a TV show called Dance Moms, which went on for seven seasons. During the filming of the show, Miller would be found guilty of several counts of fraud and tax evasion. During the shows run, Miller was often shown arguing with the mothers of her dancers, as well as being accused of mishandling funds.
Where Are They Now?
When Miller was charged for fraud, she would eventually be found guilty by the courts for concealment of bankruptcy as well as tax evasion. She was sentenced to one year in prison thanks to a plea deal; however, her sentence would be reduced due to being diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma, a form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma cancer. The diagnosis resulted in Miller losing her ability to walk temporarily. Presently, she is working on relearning to walk.
American Idol (FOX)
In 2005, American Idol judge, Paula Abdul faced scrutiny when she was accused by a former contestant, Corey Clark, of attempting to seduce him. Abdul denied all allegations, and her co-stars, Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell, even came to her defense saying it was false. The complaints would result in Clarks’ disqualification from American Idol and a police investigation into the claims. Eventually Abdul would leave the show to pursue other ventures and projects.
Where Are They Now?
Though Abdul denied any claims of a sexual relationship with Clark, the rumor did go on to follow her for a few years as she hosted the popular singing competition. These rumors would eventually be overshadowed when, in 2007, Clark would be arrested on drug charges. Clark would go on to encounter more legal problems with aggravated assault and domestic violence. As for Abdul, she has gone on to make guest appearances on major singing and dance competitions.
Sister Wives (TLC)
Sister Wives is a TLC show that focused on the Browns, a polygamist family from Las Vegas, Nevada. The premise of the show focused on Kody Brown and his relationship with his three wives. One of those wives, Meri Brown, would disclose to a friend she was in an online relationship with a man. It would eventually be discovered that Meri was talking to a woman who had cat-fished her into getting free stuff.
Where Are They Now?
The show is gearing up for a new season, which seems to be the beginning of the end for the Browns. Meri has distanced herself from Kody and her sister wives. She has moved out of the family home and bought her own house, which she shares with her daughter, Mariah. Though the new season has yet to be released there, have been rumors that this could be the last season for the TLC show.
Real Housewives of Atlanta (E!)
The Real Housewives of Atlanta is an E! reality show that follows the professional and personal lives of Atlanta’s finest and most successful women. The cast includes an array of models, actresses, and singers. Two of the women on the show, Kenya Moore and Porsha Williams, have a history and feud between one another that has spewed into the show. These two women take cat-fighting to a whole new level. On a special reunion, Porsha slapped Kenya on the face. This slap resulted in a misdemeanor charge of simple battery against Porsha. Though both women are still on the show, their dislike for one another was very apparent in the show’s storylines.
Where Are They Now?
Though both Moore and Williams have never backed down from any confrontation, it seems they’ve managed to make amends with one another. In a way, it seemed to make sense that both women were always at each other; they were so alike on so many levels. However, now that both Moore and Williams have put their past feuding behind them, it seems both women are ready to support one another and be each other’s biggest fan.
Fuller House (Netflix)
When Netflix chose to revamp Full House and create Fuller House, it wanted to bring back some of the original stars as supporting characters. One of those supporting cast members was “Aunt Becky,” played by Lori Loughlin. Loughlin’s stint on Fuller House would eventually come to an end when she became entangled in a college admission scandal. With Season 5 being filmed, everyone but Loughlin was back on set to continue the Fuller House success.
Where Are They Now?
Right now, Loughlin is spending much of her time in the courtrooms attempting to fight off bribery charges from the college admission scandal. Not only is she awaiting the outcome of the college admission scandal, but there have also been rumors that she and her fashion designer husband, Mossimo, may have been evading taxes. If Loughlin is found guilty of bribery in the college admission scandal, she could find herself facing time behind bars.
The Biggest Loser (NBC)
During its run, The Biggest Loser found itself the center of many scandals from contestants cheating to lose weight to some going too far with their weight loss. The scandals eventually became too much for the longtime judge and trainer Jillian Michaels that she ultimately left the show. Though Jillian had her fair share of scandals for being too rough and aggressive, it was the scandal of a contestant that pushed Michaels to say farewell.
Where Are They Now?
Though the series initially ended in 2016, USA Network has announced that they would bring back the popular weight-loss competition in 2020. After Michaels left the show, she went on to make guest appearances on The Doctors and create a line of fitness DVDs and video games. She also continues to get involved with various charities. When Michaels left “The Biggest Loser,” she was replaced by Kim Lyons, a personal trainer and fitness model.
Biggest Loser New Judges
Jersey Shore (MTV)
Ronnie wasn’t the only Jersey Shore member to have a scandal to their name. Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino would be found guilty of tax evasion and be sent to prison. The charges were not just against Sorrentino but also his brother Marc, who was charged for falsifying records and conspiring to defraud the US. Sorrentino would have to serve eight months for his crimes. On January 19, 2019, Sorrentino began his time at Otisville Federal Correctional Institution.
Where Are They Now?
On September 12, 2019, Sorrentino was released from prison. His brother, Marc, who was also charged, is still serving his time in Fairton, New Jersey. Sorrentino, who had gotten married before going to prison, is now looking to settle down and ensure he doesn’t end up back in bars. MTV has confirmed that another season of Jersey Shore is to be filmed and that Sorrentino is to be part of the main cast. It surely is going to be a Jersey Shore reunion.
Flip or Flop (HGTV)
They seemed like the perfect couple with the perfect life; however, Flip or Flop couple Christina and Tarek El Moussa would find themselves the center of infidelity accusations, lawsuits and even a child services investigation. Though there are varying reasons for the split, in May of 2016, police were called to their Orange County home, where Tarek was found with a weapon. Though Tarek claims he did not intend to harm himself or anyone, it’s still unknown if that was the case.
Where Are They Now?
Their marriage may have ended publicly, but the pair remain united for their show, Flip or Flop. Filming continues for the show. Though it has never been disclosed as to what lead to the divorce, friends of the pair say that fame changed them. The more money they were making, the further they got. Though this claim has yet to be proven or disproven by the couple, they plan to just resume with the filming of their hit show, Flip or Flop.
The Bachelor (ABC)
In the 14th season of the popular ABC dating show, The Bachelor, contestant Rozlyn Papa would bring a new scandal to the show. She was one of the many women who were vying for bachelor contestants, Jake Pavelka. It was then discovered that Papa was hooking-up with one of the crewmembers. This resulted in her removal from the show and the crewmember being dismissed for the violation. The only proof of said accusations came solely whispers on set and not any hard proof.
Where Are They Now?
When the behind-the-scenes affair between Papa and a crewmember were discovered, both were let-go. The Bachelor host Chris Harrison was quoted as saying that it was an unfortunate circumstance, but that a horrible decision was made. When the scandal broke, Papa said that there were no hook-ups but that it was overdramatized because “that’s reality TV.” The series has continued to film both a Bachelor and Bachelorette version. Seems the scandal did not hurt them very much.
Toddlers and Tiara’s (TLC)
In 2011, the TLC show, Toddlers and Tiaras, gave TV audiences an eyeful, when 3-year-old contestant Paisley Dickey was dressed up as a prostitute. Her outfit was meant for one of the pageant competitions. Her mother explained she was trying to dress her like the main character made famous by Julia Roberts from Pretty Women. This did not go over well with many viewers. To this day, it’s something that is remembered from the show’s short TLC stint.
Where Are They Now?
Paisley has come a long way from her pageant days. Though she is no longer in the pageant world, her mom keeps a box of all her tiaras, posters, and costumes. Today, Paisley is pursuing a career in acting. She had a small role in the movies Exeter and Beacon Point. Just as Paisley was well-rounded in her pageant life, Paisley has also taken up songwriting and guitar lessons. It seems that the world is Paisley’s oyster, who knows where she can go next?!
Real Housewives of New Jersey (MTV)
In the summer of 2014, Teresa and Joe Giudice were charged with 39 counts of fraud, which included defrauding lenders and illegally obtaining mortgages. The couple was also accused of bank fraud and failing to disclose assets. Both Teresa and Joe would be found guilty on all accounts and would be sentenced to spend time in prison. Teresa would get a 15-month term with Joe serving 41 months. Teresa ended up going on hiatus from filming due to her time behind bars.
Where Are They Now?
Though the Giudices have served their time, they are still facing legal issues. Presently Joe is in Italy after he was released from an ICE detention center and was deported for being an illegal immigrant. As of June 2018, Teresa is paying restitution to the New Jersey state department and the IRS. Though the Giudices are attempting to rectify their legal mishaps, it seems the hits keep coming. In due time should we discover if Joe is able to return to the States and if Teresa shall remain part of the The Real Housewives of New Jersey cast.
American Idol (FOX)
When American Idol first launched, it gave many aspiring singers in America a chance to get discovered. One of those hopefuls included Frenchie Davis of season 2. Davis was considered a fan favorite to take the competition until Davis disclosed she had posed nude for an adult website. After revealing this to the show, Davis was disqualified and was kicked off the competition. When Davis was disqualified she claimed that the photos were taken when she was younger and didn’t know any better. She also said she did not regret taking them.
Where Are They Now?
Though Davis did not go on to take the title for American Idol, she has gone on to pursue a career as a performer. After being disqualified from American Idol, Davis went to star on the Broadway musical Rent. She also would go on to finish in the top 8 of the singing competition The Voice. In 2012 Davis came out as bisexual and since then has gone on to be an LGBTQ
advocate.
Teen Mom 2 (MTV)
During the filming of Teen Mom 2, Jenelle Evans found herself the victim of domestic abuse at the hand of her ex-boyfriend, Nathan Griffith. The relationship between Griffith and Evans has been chronicled on the popular MTV show but also in the headlines. Last year, footage of Jenelle showed her driving erratically and taking out a weapon while her son was in the backseat. Evans would go on to later admit that she was drunk driving but that it was heavily dramatized for TV.
Where Are They Now?
Between her ex and baby daddy, Griffith, to her current ex, David Eason, Jenelle is trying to fight off rumors and accusations of drug and domestic abuse. Right now, the future for Evans is unknown; however, she was reported to have flown to New York to meet with MTV executives. Could there be a show on the way featuring Jenelle? Who knows, but it seems Evans has something in the works.
Southern Charm (Bravo)
Southern Charm star Thomas Ravenel was arrested for assault and battery in September. The charges stem from sexual assault claims made by multiple women, including his former nanny. This, however, is not Thomas’ first run-in with the law. In 2007, Thomas resigned from his position as a treasurer due to being indicted on federal charges for drug trafficking.
Where Are They Now?
Due to all the legal troubles Thomas was experiencing, he ended up leaving the popular show. Upon his departure, Thomas admitted to no wrongdoing and even hinted that the network was making things up, stating: “I’m not doing the show anymore. In the contract, they have the right to fictionalize your story. They took advantage of me. I decided I’ve got too much to lose and informed them I’m not coming back.”
The Real Housewives of Potomac (Slice)
In September of this year, The Real Housewives of Potomac star, Michael Darby, found himself being accused of sexual assault on a male production crewmember. Michael’s wife, Ashley Darby, denounced the accusations and contests that there much have been a mistake. Though Ashley believes her husband, Michael, he was charged with a felony assault and misdemeanor for improper sexual contact. Prosecutors opted not to pursue the charges against Michael, and the filming resumed for the show.
Michael has been the center of rumors that he is a closeted gay man. Other cast members of the show have accused Michael of being gay and wanting to sleep with a man. Regardless of the accusations and rumors about Michael being Gay, Ashley stands beside Michael and continues to defend his name.
Jersey Shore: Family Vacation (MTV)
GTL – Gym, tan, laundry, this was the catchphrase for the wildly watched Jersey Shore. With its growing success, MTV created a spin-off called Jersey Shore: Family Vacation. The main character, Ronnie Ortiz-Magro and his on-again and off-again girlfriend and baby mama, Jen Harley, would add to the already crazy storyline of the Jersey Shore characters. Jen and Ronnie would find themselves the center of a very nasty split. Jen would be arrested on domestic battery, while Ronnie’s secret affair would be uncovered on air during a taping.
Where Are They Now?
Recently, Ronnie would find himself in front of a California judge contesting seven misdemeanors. These allegations would come from his ex-girlfriend and mother to his daughter, April. He faced charges on domestic violence, brandishing a weapon, child endangerment and false imprisonment, all of which he has pleaded not guilty. Jen is also facing her own courtroom issues, with charges on reckless driving and domestic battery. Due to their hostile relationship, it is rumored that Ronnie still has feelings for Jersey Shore alum Sammie.
Keeping Up with the Kardashians (E!)
Days before Khloe Kardashian was set to welcome her and NBA star Tristan Thompsons daughter, footage of a cheating Tristan was leaked to media. Not long after the footage was leaked and Khloe had given birth to their daughter, did media have a frenzy with Tristan and his multiple affairs. Friends and family of the Kardashian star tried to sway her to dump Tristan; however, she remained optimistic that the rumors were just rumors. Eventually, the photos and texts would prove too much, and Khloe and Tristan’s love affair would come to an end.
Though any chance of reconciliation between Khloe and Tristan was killed the moment rumors of Tristan and Jordyn Woods, best friend to Kylie, surfaced, the two are now co-parenting their daughter. Both are back on the market. Khloe is living her best life as a mom and a Kardashian, while Tristan has been linked to numerous models and even Jordyn.
Kendra on Top (WE TV)
In 2014, Kendra on Top stars, former playmate, Kendra Wilkinson and her football husband, Hank Baskett, found themselves on the cover of tabloid magazines. Hank was accused of cheating on Kendra with a transgender model while Kendra was pregnant with their second child. This would only be the start of what would spiral into more drama and rumors that Hank had had multiple encounters with trans people. Giving their marriage a final attempt, the pair tried marriage counseling in 2015, but the infidelity by Haskett with a trans model and drug dealer would be too much for Kendra.
Where Are They Now?
Though Kendra and Hank’s divorce was finalized February of this year, the two have mutually agreed to share joint custody of their two children. Kendra has been open about being a single-parent; however, she refuses to comment on what lead to the split between her and Hank. Though Hank had a successful football career, he has remained out of the spotlight since his affair came out.
90-Day Fiancé (TLC)
TLC’s 90 Day Fiancé is one of the most underrated reality TV shows on the air right now. Serving up plenty of drama, the show focuses on Americans working to bring their significant others to the US and the process of doing so. One notable couple from the series is, Jorge Nava and his Russian bride, Anfisa Arkhipchenko. This is one couple who intrigues both viewers and skeptics alike. For one, Jorge is presently serving a two-and-a-half-year sentence in prison for drug trafficking. Though Jorge is in prison, it seems Anfisa has claimed to be waiting for Jorge when he is released.
While Jorge serves time for drug trafficking, Anfisa has taken up bodybuilding. Chronicling her life on Instagram, Anfisa likes to showcase her progress and fitness regime. She also likes to share photos of herself and Jorge before his conviction. Many still wonder whether or not Anfisa truly loves Jorge or is using him. However, every time someone questions their relationship, she is quick to fight back and say she supports and loves Jorge no matter what.
Jon and Kate Plus 8 (TLC)
Jon and Kate Gosselin’s rise to fame began during a documentary that focused on the two parents raising sextuplets and twins. The documentary was aired on the Discovery Health Channel before TLC picked up the series. During their time with TLC, the couple would face divorce, cheating, and rumors of psychological abuse. Even being scandal laden, the Gosselin’s show remains one of TLC’s highly rated programs.
Kate Gosselin remains to be a star you love to hate. After a stint on The Apprentice, Kate is back on TLC with Kate Plus Date, which follows Kate as she manages to raise her children while also trying to find love. Jon, who has stayed outside the limelight, works as a DJ in Pennsylvania while also working part-time at T.G.I. Friday’s as a prep cook. Though Kate has custody of most of the children, Jon has permanent and sole custody of Hannah and Collin.
American Idol (FOX)
Though American Idol season 12 brought some memorable contestants, the show and viewers were much more interested in the feud between Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj. The feud was very apparent and at times uncomfortable to watch. Fellow judge Randy would often place himself between the two singers. Jackson was often the middle-man who tried to get the two singers to get along and would often mediate their insults and criticisms, which were not always directed to the contestants.
Things between the two singers never reconciled, if anything their feud drew more media attention and coverage. Though neither could pin point what led to the feud to start, some say it was the video of the two singers arguing that broke the camel’s back. Presently, Minaj has taken a break from touring and performing to raise a family while Mariah continues to be the diva that she is, making occasional guest appearances on talk shows and competitions.
Simple Life (E!)
It was a scandal that broke the headlines and left fans of The Simple Life series wondering if there would be a new season after the 4th one. What happened? In 2006, a sex-video of Paris was leaked, and there had been rumors circulating that Richie had a viewing party, which resulted in Hilton feeling betrayed. The drama between the two stars spewed over onto the 4th season filming of The Simple Life. In this season of The Simple Life the two stars had alternating filming days to avoid running in to one another.
Where Are They Now?
Though it has been years since the original airing of The Simple Life, both Hilton and Richie have buried the hatchet and moved on from the drama. Nowadays, Hilton and Richie are busy working on their projects. Hilton, a model and DJ, continues to travel the world and lavish her fans with her presence. Nicole Richie has managed to make a name for herself in the fashion world while also balancing life as a mother of two.
Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie Today
Nighttime TV
While many of the TV scandals listed are from reality TV shows that follow celebrities for our entertainment, there are a few scandals that sometimes happen on-air with TV talk shows. From Fallon to Maher, these often very vocal hosts have brought their own scandal through talks on topics like politics and policies. Just goes to show, news or reality TV, nothing is scandal-free. Even the news and what is around us can be scandalous.