Suddenly Amish star Billie Jo ‘insulted’ over claims TLC show is ‘exploitative’ and addresses claims series is scripted
Suddenly Amish star Billie Jo has hit back at ‘insulting’ claims that the TLC show is exploitative and fake.
The divisive reality series premiered earlier this month and follows six modern ‘English’ individuals as they ditch their lifestyles to live within a traditional Amish community in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
But leaving their lifestyles behind isn’t as easy as they imagined, and the group struggle with intense culture shock as they navigate strict rules under the guidance of Bishop Vernon Coblentz.
While many fans praised TLC for sticking to its stereotypically outrageous programming following the show’s premiere on January 13, some viewers have voiced their skepticism over its authenticity.
Some don’t believe the Amish hosts are truly Amish. And, after seeing 25-year-old Esmerelda struggle to give up her fake eyelashes, others aren’t convinced the English individuals aren’t paid actors.
Additionally, some have even accused TLC of ‘making a mockery’ of the Christian faith while claiming the English have no real interest in becoming Amish.
Billie Jo, one of the English participants who admits she has an affinity for the Amish culture, has blasted the allegations.
‘I think that I think that’s insulting,’ she told Daily Mail in response to those who have called into question the authenticity.
Billie Jo is one of the English participants starring in TLC’s Suddenly Amish
The new reality show premiered earlier this month and follows six English as they immerse themselves in the Amish way of life
‘I think that our Amish host and the bishop and their families are the most beautiful people, and I’m so happy to have met them, and I’m so happy to be in their life.
‘I think that’s very insulting to them and their family and their faith, and it’s kind of horrifying.’
But it’s not just authenticity that has come into question. Viewers have also accused TLC of exploiting the Amish community.
Turning her attention to claims the show is exploitative, New York native Billie Jo, 44, heaped praise on the Amish community that welcomed her and her co-stars in with open arms.
‘It’s a huge thing that they’ve done for us,’ she acknowledged.
Billie Jo and the other English are welcomed into the Amish community by several hosts, who open their lives and hearts to guide them through this radical experience.
Among them are Bishop Vernon, a strict and respected leader who is determined to grow his community while balancing tradition with his bold and unorthodox approach.
Meanwhile Allen and Sarah, parents to four adopted children, bring warmth and patience as seasoned mentors.
Allen (pictured) and his wife Sarah serve as mentors as they welcome the newcomers into the fold
Billie Jo hit back at claims that Suddenly Amish is exploitative or in any way scripted
‘I think it’s insulting to say that they’re not genuine people,’ Billie Jo continued. ‘I mean, I’m so happy that I know them and their family.
‘I think it’s hurtful to the Amish that are welcoming us. I think that it’s not fair to them. They did this out of the goodness of their heart and I really hate to see that being turned around into other reasons. That’s hurtful.
‘I think that after time and after people get to see more of the journey, that they’ll understand how, you know, authentic this really is.’
Billie Jo also hit back at claims that the show is scripted and staged.
‘I wouldn’t be able to do that,’ she said. ‘I’m not an actress. I’m just authentic. I’m myself, and I don’t want to be a movie star.
‘I literally want to live the Amish dream, and I am fortunate enough to be able to say that I was given the opportunity to do that.’
Billie Jo added that the emotional reactions are very raw and true.
‘Honestly, none of us are none of us are actors,’ she continued. ‘I wish that I had a script to read from, because some of the uncomfortable situations I found myself in.’
