The Whittaker Family’s Complex Legacy
The Whittakers are one of the most well-known families in America, primarily due to their complicated and tragic history of inbreeding. The family’s story first gained attention when filmmaker Mark Laita documented their lives for his book Created Equal. Laita has since shared several glimpses into the family’s world on his YouTube channel, Soft White Underbelly, but his journey with them has been far from smooth.
A Filmmaker’s Effort to Help the Whittaker Family
Laita’s relationship with the Whittakers started with the intent to highlight their struggles and raise awareness. Over the years, he has tried to assist the family, launching two GoFundMe campaigns to improve their living conditions. However, these efforts were marred by a series of unexpected twists.
Laita’s relationship with the family took a turn when YouTuber Tyler Oliveira interviewed the Whittakers, during which Betty Whittaker claimed she didn’t know what had happened to the funds raised for the family. Laita responded to these remarks in a video on his own channel, expressing surprise at her confusion. He showed bank statements as evidence that the family had frequently asked for money, but there was uncertainty about how it had been spent.
The Unfolding Drama and Deception
The situation escalated when it was falsely reported that a family member, Larry Whittaker, had passed away. Before verifying the information, Laita had given $1,000 to Larry’s daughter to help with funeral costs. It was later revealed that Larry was alive, and the daughter had fabricated the story.
In a video addressing the hoax, Larry’s daughter admitted to her actions, stating, “I’m not proud of what I’ve done. I shouldn’t have done it.” Despite this apology, Laita would find himself deceived once again. Larry later asked for more financial help to relocate his daughter, but it was discovered that Larry had kept the money himself.
Though Laita was understandably frustrated, he chose to give the family another chance. In his latest update, titled Thicker Than Water, Laita met with Larry, who apologized for his actions. The filmmaker, showing understanding and compassion, responded with, “I’m very good at forgiving and understanding. I’ve missed you guys, I think a lot of my viewers have missed you guys too.”
A New Fundraiser and a Family’s Struggles
Laita decided to launch another fundraiser for the Whittakers, focusing on providing for their living expenses and maintaining their home. Amid their increasing visibility and attention, many have begun to wonder how the family’s history of inbreeding began and what led to their unique situation.
The Origins of the Whittaker Family’s Inbreeding
The Whittakers’ history of inbreeding began with a set of identical twin brothers, Henry and John. According to reports from the Daily Mail, Henry’s son John and his twin’s daughter Gracie are believed to have had 15 children together: Aileen, Emory, Barbra, Nannie Lou, Connie Jean, Freddy, Lorene Sue, Mary Madeleine, John, Betty Ann, Danny Ray, Larry Eugene, Kenneth Waye, Judy Kay, and Michael Steven.
While details about some of the children are scarce, Betty Whittaker is now considered the head of the family. In an interview with Soft White Underbelly, Betty revealed that she had promised her mother she wouldn’t marry and instead would take care of her siblings.
The Family’s Isolation and Protection
The Whittakers live in a remote area, and their neighbors are known to protect their privacy fiercely, often discouraging strangers from approaching the family. Despite their difficult circumstances, the Whittakers continue to live on their property, maintaining a lifestyle that is largely unknown to outsiders.
Conclusion: A Complicated History and a Hopeful Future?
The Whittaker family’s story is one of complexity, hardship, and at times, deception. While the family’s past is marred by inbreeding and financial struggles, their relationship with filmmaker Mark Laita highlights both the challenges and potential for change. Despite the setbacks, Laita’s ongoing support shows a willingness to help, proving that even the most difficult situations can offer opportunities for growth and healing.
As the Whittakers continue to receive attention, questions about their history and the impact of their upbringing remain. However, the family’s story also serves as a reminder that compassion and understanding can go a long way in transforming lives, even when the road to recovery is not always straightforward.
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