An ex-star of the reality TV show “Little People, Big World” is accusing a former producer of molesting him, saying he was victimized following a “long grooming process” while a part of the hit series.
Jacob Roloff, the 23-year-old son of Amy and Mark Roloff, claimed in a lengthy Instagram post Tuesday that the former producer molested him during his tenure with the show, which is now in its 21st season.
“I do not expect to provide details of this encounter at any point publicly,” Roloff wrote. “I do hope he is never allowed around children again.”
Roloff, who left the show last year, said he first considered going public with the accusation when the ex-producer texted him years later in November 2015.
“I choose to disclose it now as it remains a traumatic memory that needs to be exorcised of any further power over my development,” Roloff’s post continued. “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.”
In a statement to The Post, TLC reps said early Thursday they were cooperating with authorities following Roloff’s bombshell allegation.
“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,” the statement read. “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.”
Roloff said he needed “silence and time” to process the alleged sexual assault prior to going public. He also noted the troubling aspect of voyeurism inherent in reality television — which he characterized as a “massive spectacle of drama and pain and argument and invasion, with a little joy sprinkled over.”
Roloff acknowledged that the profits connected to the show were “indeed sweet” for him and his family.
“The actual experience was more complicated,” the post continued.
Roloff, who appeared on the show with his since-divorced parents and three siblings, was 9 years old when it premiered in 2006, according to USA Today.
The producer accused by Roloff worked on the show between 2007 and 2010. He did not return a request for comment, People reported Wednesday. He could not immediately be reached for comment by The Post.
Roloff got married in September 2019 to Isabel Sofia Rock at his family’s Roloff Farms outside Portland, Oregon, People reported.
“It must finally be emphasized that all fault lies with the predator, and no fault lies with any of my family members,” Roloff’s post concluded. “I am certain that this is a positive moment for me, and another step toward a brighter future.”
Roloff’s mom, meanwhile, said she was “proud” of her son for coming forward with the accusation.
“I love you forever and always Jacob,” she wrote. “I’m proud of you. Now you don’t have to feel alone and carry this around anymore.”