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Trigger Alert: This article touches on sensitive topics regarding harm to a child.Back when Little People, Big World premiered on TLC in 2006, many viewers were instantly fascinated by the Roloffs. Since that time, the Roloff family has undeniably gone on to enjoy a great deal of success as evidenced by the fact that they’ve become so wealthy.
Since most people dream of becoming rich and famous, some people may think that everything has been great for the Roloffs. In reality, however, Little People, Big World has changed a lot over the years because the Roloff family has gone through a great of strife.
One of the biggest lowlights that the Roloff family went through is Matt and Amy’s divorce. Another unfortunate thing that the Roloff clan has seemingly gone through is all the drama that resulted from Matt’s decision not to sell the family farm to one of his kids.
Even though all of that drama is a shame, it pales in comparison to what Jacob Roloff went through. After all, Jacob accused one of Little People, Big World’s producers of doing awful things to him when he was young.
What Happened To Jacob Roloff?
When people tune into a reality show, it can be easy to feel like they know what is really going on in the stars’ lives. In reality, however, they are only getting a small window into what is going on. Tragically, in 2020 Jacob Roloff proved how little his fans really knew about what he has gone through.
In December 2020, Jacob went on Instagram and wrote about being groomed and harmed by one of Little People, Big World’s producers.
In Jacob’s post, he explained what his motivation was for revealing what he went through at that time. “I choose to disclose it now as it remains a traumatic memory that needs to be exorcised of any further power over my development.”
“By revealing this, I may be more fully understood and my perspective on issues such as child sexual abuse, child exploitation, and the collateral costs of reality television may be received more clearly.”
“Although, I would have to add that this experience has not solely defined my point of view on any of these issues, nor has it defined my worldview in general.”
Jacob also revealed why he waited years to reveal his truth even though abuse survivors don’t owe anyone an explanation for speaking out on their own timeline. “‘Why not speak out sooner?’ A child must process, and I needed silence and time.”
In response to Jacob’s post, TLC released a statement.
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“TLC was just informed about an alleged encounter that occurred years ago involving a third party connected to the production of Little People, Big World.”
“We are saddened and troubled by this very serious allegation, and TLC will work cooperatively with the authorities. Our main focus remains on supporting the Roloff family during this very difficult time.”
Several members of Roloff’s family also came out with statements of their own that praised Jacob’s brave decision to speak out.
Given what starring in a reality show brought into Jacob’s life, it makes perfect sense he won’t let his son follow in his footsteps by being a reality star at a young age.
What Happened After Jacob Roloff’s Accusation?
In an ideal world, the man Jacob Roloff accused of abuse would see his day in court to face the allegations. However, that hasn’t happened and at this point, it seems unlikely to ever transpire.
When Jacob released his original statement about the abuse, he explained one thing he hoped would come from his allegation. “I do hope he is never allowed around children again.”
With that in mind, some people may be confused why Jacob never pressed charges against his alleged abuser, Chris Cardamone. During a 2022 Instagram Q & A, Jacob hinted at why he never pressed charges and other abuse survivors likely can relate.
“Unfortunately, and I think this is important for others to know, too, it is extremely difficult to pursue any legal action because of a system built to make it that way. He won’t receive any repercussions except for perhaps socially from my post.”
What Has Been Learned About Chris Cardamone
After Jacob Roloff alleged that Chris Cardamone abused him, The Sun published a disturbing update on the former Little People, Big World producer in February 2021. After communicating with the Santa Clara Sheriff’s Office, The Sun revealed that Cardamone has a revolting history.
During Cardamone’s time working on Little People, Big World as a senior producer, he was investigated for harming a minor. Based on that investigation, Cardamone was charged with several crimes involving a child under 14 years old.
After initially pleading not guilty, Cardamone took a plea deal and was sentenced to 73 days in jail and four years of supervised probation. At the time, the Santa Clara Sheriff’s Office didn’t reveal if the victim in the case was Jacob.
Considering that Jacob later wrote about not pressing charges against Cardamone, it seems clear there was another alleged victim.
