America’s ‘most inbred family’ have issued an apology to the man who uncovered them.
Photographer Mark Laita discovered the Whittaker family about 20 years ago, but he didn’t start filming their lives right away.
He stayed in contact with them and went back to their home in Odd, West Virginia, to begin filming in 2020.
\The family consists of three siblings named Lorraine, Timmy, and Ray. Their parents were reportedly first cousins.
After the Whittaker family appeared on Mark Laita’s Soft White Underbelly YouTube channel, they got a lot of attention and were labeled as “the most inbred family” in the U.S.
Although Mark had a good relationship with them, he decided to end it after discovering they had been lying to him.
The family told Mark that 67-year-old Larry Whittaker had died earlier this year. Mark helped them raise money for the funeral and even gave $1,000 of his own money.
However, Larry wasn’t actually dead. When Mark found out, the family apologized for lying, but they went on to deceive him again.
The photographer, Mark Laita, gave Larry Whittaker $700 to help him take his daughter BJ to North Carolina to start a new life. But Larry didn’t do that and kept the money for himself.
Even though Mark said he wasn’t going to see the Whittakers anymore, he visited them over the summer. He filmed the visit and posted it on YouTube this month. In the video, Larry shakes Mark’s hand and apologizes for everything that happened.
“It’s been a long time,” Larry says to Mark. “I’m sorry for what they did to you, and I want to tell the world that I’m sorry.”
Mark accepts the apology and says he missed them. “I’m very good at forgiving and understanding,” Mark shared. “I’ve missed you guys, and I think my viewers have missed you too.” He even joked that the Whittakers probably missed the money they made from being on his YouTube channel.
Now that they’re on speaking terms again, Mark set up another GoFundMe for the family in late August. So far, the page has raised a little over $600 out of a $100,000 goal. The money will go toward helping the family with living expenses and taking care of their home.
Is Having Bright Pink Hair in Church Disrespectful? I’m Having Trouble Comprehending It
This past Sunday was supposed to be just like any other day at church—quiet, reflective, and full of reverence. However, something caught my eye during the service that I simply couldn’t ignore: a woman sitting near the front pew with bright pink hair. I was stunned. I know we live in a time where self-expression is celebrated, but I can’t help feeling like this was completely out of place in a sacred space like church. To me, church has always been about modesty and respect, not making bold fashion statements.
I tried to focus on the sermon, but the vibrant color of her hair kept pulling my attention. It wasn’t just a subtle pastel pink—it was bold, neon, the kind that makes you do a double-take. I grew up in a time where people dressed modestly for church, where muted tones and simplicity were signs of respect. Is it wrong that I feel like pink hair, especially that loud, is disrespectful in a place of worship?
After the service ended, I saw the woman standing outside, chatting with some people. I hesitated for a moment, wondering if I should say something, but my curiosity—and concern—got the better of me. I approached her with every intention of being polite.
“Excuse me,” I started cautiously, “I couldn’t help but notice your hair. I just wanted to share that I feel like such bright colors might not be appropriate for church.”
Her eyes widened, and for a brief moment, I thought she would apologize or at least explain. Instead, her response shocked me.
“Well, I don’t think it’s any of your business,” she replied sharply, with a slight smile that didn’t seem friendly. “I come to church to pray, not to be judged for how I look.”
I was completely taken aback. I hadn’t expected such a curt reaction. My intention wasn’t to offend her, but simply to express my feelings on what I thought was an important matter of respect for the church. However, her words left me feeling conflicted. Had I overstepped?
Now, I’m really struggling with this situation. I’ve always believed that there should be certain standards when it comes to how we present ourselves in church. It’s not about suppressing individuality, but about showing respect for a space that many of us hold sacred.
Was I wrong for speaking up? Maybe I’m just being old-fashioned, but it feels like we’re losing a sense of reverence for tradition and sacred spaces. Am I the only one who feels this way? Has anyone else experienced something similar in their church?
I’d really love to hear your thoughts on this. Do you think I was out of line, or is there still room for certain standards when it comes to respect in church?
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