In a powerful new chapter, Amy Duggar King shares that her mother, Deanna Duggar, now lives with her in safety, escaping years of alleged abuse by Amy’s father. This revelation, detailed in Amy’s upcoming memoir Holy Disruptor, offers a raw glimpse into their family’s past, further distinguishing Amy as a vocal truth-teller within the famously private Duggar clan.
For years, fans of the Duggar family have watched Amy Duggar King carve her own path, often labeled as the “black sheep” or “crazy cousin” for her more modern lifestyle compared to her conservative relatives. Now, Amy is stepping forward with her debut memoir, Holy Disruptor, to share deeply personal stories, including a pivotal moment in her mother’s life that has brought them closer than ever.
A Mother’s New Beginning: Deanna Duggar Finds Safety with Amy
In a significant personal update, Amy Duggar King has revealed that her mother, Deanna Duggar—who is Jim Bob Duggar’s older sister—now lives with her, her husband Dillon King, and their son Daxton Ryan King. This move marks a new chapter of safety and tranquility for Deanna after what Amy describes as years of alleged abuse.
Amy shared with People that her mother now feels “safe,” a profound change from a past filled with fear. “She knows she’s safe,” Amy stated. “I know that sounds crazy, but really, she used to wake up with so much fear. She was so scared,” as reported by People. This statement underscores the deep impact of the alleged abuse Deanna endured.
Unveiling the Past: Terry Jordan and Alleged Abuse
The alleged abuse, central to Amy’s upcoming memoir, stemmed from her father and Deanna’s ex-husband, Terry Jordan. Amy claims Terry was emotionally abusive towards both her and her mother. This toxic environment had a profound effect on Deanna’s ability to parent, leaving Amy feeling secondary.
“Even as a little girl, I knew my dad took up most of her heart, and she did not have time for little old me,” Amy explained. “I knew she loved me, but she just couldn’t show it because she was so bogged down from this terrible relationship.” The instability of their home life left Amy hoping for change.
The situation eventually led to Terry and Deanna Jordan’s divorce in December 2015, after nine years of marriage. As an adult, Amy made the difficult decision to cut ties with her father, sending a final text message that she described as “the most heartbreaking yet liberating moment of my life.” She understood this step was necessary to break free from the cycle of abuse and create a healthier future for her own family.
Holy Disruptor: Amy’s Memoir Explores Deeper Truths
Amy’s memoir, Holy Disruptor, set to release on October 14, delves into these painful memories and more. Beyond her immediate family, the book promises to address the actions of other prominent figures within the Duggar family, including her cousin, convicted sex offender Josh Duggar, and her predator grandfather, Jimmy Lee Duggar. This aligns with Amy’s public stance as a commentator on her family’s controversies, including her involvement in the docuseries Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets.
Amy has openly shared her intention for the book to be candid, revealing “my entire book will drop jaws,” as she told People. This memoir is poised to offer an unfiltered perspective on the complexities and challenges she faced growing up connected to one of America’s most recognizable—and scrutinized—religious families.
Amy’s Journey: From ‘Crazy Cousin’ to Truth-Teller
Since her early appearances on TLC’s 19 Kids and Counting starting in 2008, Amy Duggar King has always been positioned as a stark contrast to her cousins. Her “more normal” lifestyle, including dating multiple men before marriage and openly discussing sex, often served as a “foil” to the sheltered Duggar children. This public persona earned her the moniker “Crazy Cousin Amy.”
Amy’s outspokenness continued through her appearances on the spin-off Counting On and the WEtv show Marriage Boot Camp: Reality Stars, where she openly discussed her childhood abuse as a source of marital problems. Her willingness to share such personal struggles has resonated with many fans, who see her as a voice of honesty within a family that often presents a carefully curated image.
A New Family Dynamic: Building a Healthy Home
Today, Amy is “very much in love” with her husband of ten years, entrepreneur Dillon King. They welcomed their son, Daxton Ryan King, on October 9, 2019. With her mother now living with them, Amy is committed to modeling a healthy and supportive family environment for Daxton, free from the cycles of abuse she experienced.
“My husband and my mom and Daxie are my world,” Amy affirmed, highlighting her priorities. She reflects on her past, stating, “I used to be like, ‘Oh, it’s a good day. Thank God it’s a good day.’ Now every day is a good day. So that is just the epitome of what I’ve always wanted.” This peace and stability are a testament to her journey of healing and setting boundaries.
Reshaping the Duggar Narrative: A Fan Community Perspective
Amy Duggar King’s ongoing willingness to speak her truth continues to reshape public perception of the notoriously private Duggar family. Her candidness, particularly regarding sensitive topics like abuse and family dynamics, provides a crucial counter-narrative to the carefully constructed image often presented on television.
For fans who have followed the family for years, Amy’s story offers valuable insights and validates discussions around the complexities of growing up within such a high-profile, conservative environment. Her memoir, Holy Disruptor, available for preorder now, stands as a testament to her journey and her commitment to fostering a healthier future for her own family, while also shedding light on the broader challenges faced by her extended relatives.
