The Bates and Duggars have 19 kids each — but that isn’t the only similarity between the two families. Upon closer examination, it’s actually kind of eerie how much they have in common.
Originally published January 2016. Updated March 2017.
Jinger and Lawson
Jinger Duggar is married to someone else now, but not long ago she was reportedly courting Lawson Bates.
Joseph and Carlin
The families are also linked by rumors of another courtship: Carlin Bates and Joseph Duggar.
Inspiration
The Bates commended the Duggars on being a family that “exemplifies love, patience and Christian faith.”
The second born
Both second-born children are daughters (Jana and Michaella), and they’re only 11 days apart.
Weddings
They socialize with each other often, including attending big functions like weddings.
Support
Both families have publicly shown support for one another, including the Bates supporting the Duggars’ rally.
They may marry
With 19 kids on each side, there might even be a Duggar/Bates wedding in the future.
Education
Like the Duggars, the Bates kids are all homeschooled.
They share beliefs
Both the Bates and Duggar families have strong Christian beliefs and are a part of the Quiverfull movement.
Cover-ups
The Bates’ ministry, the Institute in Basic Life Principles, was hit with a lawsuit — which Gil is said to have covered up.
They’ve known each other for decades
Gil and Kelly Bates have known Michelle and Jim Bob Duggar for decades, so it’s no wonder they have such a strong bond.
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