Derick Dillard has revealed it is difficult to have a relationship with his wife Jill Duggar’s siblings because of the couple’s rift with her parents, Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar.
His comments come after the family’s strained relationship has been thrust into the public spotlight in recent months.
The former Counting On star also revealed that he and Jill didn’t get fired from the show, and instead chose to walk away on their own.
Derick and Jill are no longer a part of the Institute of Basic Life Principles church.
Derick Dillard and Jill Duggar have ‘difficult’ relationship with Duggar family
In an interview with The Sun, Derick Dillard spoke out about the rift with the Duggar family and how it is affecting his and Jill’s relationship with her siblings.
He said, “Because our visitation to the Duggar house has been restricted and that is where they and their spouses hang out, we have not been able to see other family as much as we would like, so that is difficult. We do try to invite brothers and sisters-in-law over as much as they can come.
“We hope and pray God would restore relationships where there is brokenness. But, at the same time, we recognize that only God can change people’s hearts and bring healing.”
Last year, Derick revealed that he and Jill needed permission to be at the Duggar compound. This came up because Jill had to get ahold of her parents when Jessa Duggar unexpectedly went into labor weeks early and everyone else was out of town.
It was also noticeable that Jill Duggar and Derick Dillard were not around the Duggar family during the holidays. Thanksgiving and Christmas both came and went without any interaction between the two families.
Derick’s book
There have been reports that Jim Bob Duggar is already in contact with lawyers about a book Derick Dillard plans to release. Derick wants to tell his story, and while it will focus on the journey he and Jill Duggar are taking, it will likely reveal new information about the other Duggar family members.
With all of Derick’s inside knowledge about what goes on in the Duggar family, it is believed that Jim Bob is worried.
Derick said, “Although the book will be inspired by our own journey, the goal is for it to be relatable, in that it will examine themes that have haunted people for ages. Our story is difficult, but it is not unique.”
Jill Duggar has reportedly tried to remain neutral in the situation, but she sticks by her husband’s side. She has grown much closer to cousin Amy Duggar King, who has appeared on 19 Kids and Counting in the past. She was reportedly banned from hanging out with her cousins because of her more worldly outlook on life.
Counting On returns Tuesday, June 30 at 9/8c on TLC.
Derick, is this God’s best? I would not be surprised by anything, except perhaps your motive. Seek God’s Word and will first. Can anything good come from this?