The Discovery Channel has announced that their hit show Sons Of Guns will no longer be on the air after its star, Will Hayden, was arrested on Wednesday for the alleged rape of one of his daughters.
Hayden is accused of sexually abusing his 12-year old daughter, who told police he has raped her orally and vaginally nearly every day since she was 11 years old, when he took her virginity. Hayden was originally taken into custody earlier this month on the same charges, but was released on bond. He claimed his ex-girlfriend–the child’s mother–made the accusations due to bitterness between them, but the child has reportedly gone to investigators with stories to back up her mother’s claims, which led to his arrest this week.
Another of Hayden’s daughters, Stephanie–who also stars on the show–told TMZ that she never saw any wrongdoing in their home and defended her father.
“There was never any impropriety in our home. He was and is a good father,” she said.
The Discovery Channel released a statement regarding the arrest, saying the show would stop production in light of the events.
“Given the serious and horrific nature of the charges against Will Hayden, we have decided to halt further production of ‘Sons of Guns’ and cancel the series,” the statement read.
Red Jacket Firearms, which is featured on the show and was founded by Hayden, also released a statement after news of the arrest broke, saying they would continue business as usual despite separating themselves legally from Hayden.
“With heavy hearts, we will be continuing to operate and ensure the fulfillment of new customer orders, back orders and to provide support to those affected by these new developments. WE are the Heart and Soul of Red Jacket and will remain steadfast in our commitment to quality and our customers, for years to come,” the statement said.