Bringing Up Bates remains a topic of fascination in 2026, years after the family’s reality show ended its run on UPtv. Viewers who followed the Bates family for a decade still keep up with their lives through social media, YouTube, and ministry work. From new marriages to growing families and business ventures, the Bates family continues to stay connected to fans across the United States, proving that their influence didn’t fade when the cameras stopped rolling.
The Story Behind Bringing Up Bates
Bringing Up Bates premiered on January 1, 2015, on UPtv and became one of the network’s top-rated family shows. The series centered around Gil and Kelly Jo Bates, a devout Christian couple from Tennessee raising their 19 children in a home filled with faith, discipline, and joy.
For ten seasons, the show offered an inside look at a large American family rooted in Christian values. Fans watched as the Bates children grew up, courted, got married, and started families of their own. Each episode captured milestones like weddings, births, and family gatherings, all underscored by faith-based lessons that resonated with viewers across the country.
The Bates family’s strong moral values and warmth made the show a hit among audiences seeking wholesome reality TV. The program celebrated faith, love, and togetherness while offering glimpses into the everyday challenges of managing such a large household.
The Show’s Unexpected End
In January 2022, UPtv made the decision to cancel Bringing Up Bates ahead of its planned eleventh season. The network stated that it wanted to shift toward more scripted programming and original films. This announcement marked the end of the Bates family’s seven-year presence on television.
Fans were disappointed, as the family’s storylines had remained among UPtv’s most-watched programs. However, the Bates family responded with grace, thanking UPtv for giving them the opportunity to share their lives and their faith for so many years. They also expressed deep appreciation to viewers who supported them throughout the show’s run.
Although the official broadcast came to an end, the Bates family did not retreat from the public eye. Instead, they turned to online platforms, where they have continued to share family news, updates, and life milestones directly with fans.
The Bates Family in 2026: A Look at Their Current Lives
Gil and Kelly Jo Bates
Gil and Kelly Jo Bates, the patriarch and matriarch of the family, remain at the heart of everything. They continue to live in Rocky Top, Tennessee, where Gil serves as pastor at Bible Baptist Church. Their home remains a hub for family visits and gatherings, often filled with laughter, grandchildren, and food.
Kelly Jo remains deeply involved in ministry and family activities. Even with many of her children grown and married, she stays connected through frequent visits and family trips. Her warmth and devotion to family life have made her a beloved figure among longtime fans.
Together, Gil and Kelly Jo oversee a constantly expanding family network that now includes dozens of grandchildren, all while maintaining their faith-based lifestyle that inspired viewers for years.
The Bates Siblings: New Chapters, New Adventures
Each of the 19 Bates children has built a unique life since Bringing Up Bates ended. Many continue to share their journeys with the public through social media, while others have stepped back to focus on family and work.
Here’s where the Bates siblings stand in 2026:
| Name | Age (2026) | Update |
|---|---|---|
| Zach Bates | 37 | Married to Whitney; parents of four; runs a local business and serves as a firefighter in Tennessee. |
| Michael Keilen | 35 | Married to Brandon; continues involvement in Christian outreach and community work. |
| Erin Paine | 34 | Married to Chad; mother of six; known for her music, homemaking inspiration, and family-centered YouTube presence. |
| Lawson Bates | 33 | Pursuing a music career; married to actress Tiffany Espensen; active in entertainment and charity. |
| Nathan Bates | 32 | Married to Esther Keyes; raising their young family while balancing ministry commitments. |
| Alyssa Webster | 31 | Married to John Webster; lives in Florida with five children; active online sharing family life and home design. |
| Tori Smith | 30 | Married to Bobby; raising four children; focuses on homeschooling and family faith. |
| Trace Bates | 28 | Married to Lydia Romeike; welcomed their first child in 2023; lives in Tennessee. |
| Josie Balka | 26 | Married to Kelton; raising three daughters; works on home and beauty projects. |
| Katie Clark | 24 | Married to Travis; lives in New Jersey; active on YouTube documenting their life as a young married couple. |
| Younger siblings (Addallee, Ellie, Callie, Judson, Jeb) | 10–20 | Still at home with their parents; occasionally appear in family updates. |
This new generation of Bates families has continued the show’s spirit through their social media presence. Collectively, their online channels reach hundreds of thousands of followers who enjoy keeping up with milestones, daily routines, and moments of faith.
Lawson Bates: A Multifaceted Performer
Lawson Bates, one of the best-known members of the family, has established a steady career in music and entertainment. His blend of country and Christian music has drawn an expanding fan base. In recent years, he’s performed at charity concerts, released several singles, and appeared in small television projects.
Lawson’s marriage to Tiffany Espensen in 2022 connected the Bates family with a broader audience, as Tiffany brought her own entertainment background from film and TV. Together, they continue to share glimpses of their marriage and projects through Instagram and YouTube, often highlighting faith and encouragement in their posts.
Erin Bates Paine: Family and Faith in Harmony
Another fan favorite, Erin Paine, remains active both as a mother and a musician. Known for her piano performances and uplifting Christian songs, Erin continues to release new music while raising her six children with her husband, Chad.
Erin’s content often focuses on family life, faith, and home décor. She has become a source of encouragement to many mothers who follow her online, offering a window into managing motherhood with grace and positivity.
Alyssa and John Webster: Florida Family Life
Alyssa Webster, one of the Bates daughters, and her husband John have made a home in Florida, where they raise their five children. Their YouTube channel gives fans insight into their family adventures, parenting routines, and lifestyle tips.
Alyssa’s sense of organization and warm personality have made her one of the most relatable members of the family online. Her family’s cheerful and faith-filled approach continues to attract a loyal following.
The Family’s Continued Online Reach
After Bringing Up Bates went off air, the Bates family seamlessly transitioned into digital media. Many of the adult children run personal YouTube channels or Instagram accounts that allow fans to stay connected to their daily lives.
Some of the most active platforms include:
- The Bates Family Channel – Gil and Kelly Jo share family gatherings, announcements, and spiritual encouragement.
- The Websters’ Channel – Alyssa’s Florida-based family vlog focused on parenting and lifestyle.
- The Paines’ Channel – Erin and Chad’s content about music, homemaking, and large family life.
- Lawson and Tiffany Bates – Entertainment and family-centered updates shared from their travels.
This online activity has kept the Bates family at the center of public attention even after their show concluded. Fans continue to engage with them through comments, Q&A sessions, and online live streams.
The Bates’ Faith and Values in Modern Times
Faith remains the cornerstone of the Bates family’s life. Their Christian beliefs shape everything from their careers to their parenting. Gil and Kelly Jo have always emphasized that the family’s goal is not fame, but to honor God in all they do.
Their children share this same perspective, often posting Bible verses and words of encouragement on social media. Even with the challenges of public attention, the Bates family has remained consistent in their positive tone and faith-driven messages.
The Impact of Bringing Up Bates on Reality TV
Though Bringing Up Bates concluded in 2021, its cultural impact continues. The show offered an alternative to the drama-driven format of many reality programs. It showcased a loving family dealing with everyday joys and struggles while emphasizing unity and kindness.
The series also encouraged open discussions about large families, faith-based living, and community involvement. Many viewers who watched the show from the beginning still revisit old episodes and share clips online, keeping the Bates family legacy alive.
In today’s entertainment landscape, Bringing Up Bates stands as one of the few family shows that successfully combined authenticity, humor, and heart without losing its moral center.
What’s Next for the Bates Family?
As of 2026, there are no official announcements about a television revival or documentary project. However, the Bates family remains open to sharing their lives through other creative outlets. Their strong social media following ensures that fans will continue to receive updates, new content, and glimpses into their ever-growing family.
Whether through church events, family vlogs, or music, the Bates family shows no signs of slowing down. Their enduring popularity proves that audiences still crave stories about faith, family, and genuine human connection.
Final Thoughts
Bringing Up Bates may no longer air on UPtv, but its legacy thrives through the ongoing lives of Gil and Kelly Jo’s 19 children and their many grandchildren. Their story continues to unfold through music, ministry, and social media, touching audiences who admire their commitment to family and faith.
The Bates family remains a shining example of how strong values and love can keep a family united long after the cameras stop rolling.