Collin Gosselin is 22 years old and he’s finally telling his version of the story. In his new memoir In the Shadow of Eight, the former Jon&Kate Plus 8 star claims that his happiest childhood memories with his mother, Kate Gosselin, were fabricated for the cameras. He also alleges that the abuse he says he experienced at home got worse when he began refusing to film, and he describes a specific moment he claims was staged for the show.
Kate Gosselin has not publicly addressed the book’s claims and has long denied allegations of abuse, neglect or wrongdoing. Collin was institutionalized at 12, and his father Jon Gosselin later gained custody of him and his sister Hannah.
Perhaps the most gutting detail in the memoir isn’t about Kate at all. Collin says he can’t remember what his siblings looked like, or their voices, or what they were interested in. Eight kids grew up in the same house under the same spotlight, and now most of them are strangers. It’s a reminder that reality TV doesn’t end when the cameras stop rolling. Do you think reality shows should be allowed to feature minor children? Sound off in the comments.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.