The Discovery Channel reality show "Sons of Guns" is immediately ceasing production after news of show star Will Hayden being arrested for allegedly raping a minor.
Discovery announced the show's cancelation two weeks after TMZ reported Hayden had been arrested.
"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," Discovery said in a statement Wednesday."
According to the East Baton Rouge sheriff's office, the victim was 11 when the alleged molestation started, saying that she was molested or raped almost daily but initially did not report the acts because of threats from her father.
"Sons of Guns" followed Hayden in the day-to-day running of his firearms business, Red Jacket Firearms LLC, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The show had just finished its fifth season and was preparing for a sixth, with the show performing well in ratings for male viewers.
That will no longer be the case. In addition to canceling the series, Discovery has virtually erased Hayden and the show's existence from its sites. Red Jacket Firearms have done much the same, seeking full legal separation 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," the company said on its store page. "WE are the Heart and Soul of Red Jacket and will remain steadfast in our committment to quality and our customers, for years to come."
Hayden was released on Aug. 9 after posting bail. Although he was released after posting bail, he was arrested again on Tuesday for an added charge of alleged aggravated rape of a child.
After the initial allegations, one of Hayden's daughters, Stephanie Hayden Ford, took to Facebook to dispel fears the show might be canceled.
"Guys the show is NOT cancelled! We so appreciate the outcry of injustice but [it's] not true, I guess some [people] just need ratings... We are on a hold with filming while my family takes care of a few things," she said. She has since deleted the post.
Hayden's lawyer says the accusations leveled against his client "are completely false."
