Reality television star, businessman, and outspoken Christian leader passes away following battle with Alzheimer’s disease
Phil Alexander Robertson, the patriarch of the hit reality television series “Duck Dynasty” and founder of the Duck Commander hunting empire, died on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the age of 79. His family announced his passing through social media statements, marking the end of a remarkable life that spanned from humble Louisiana beginnings to national television stardom and influential conservative advocacy.
Early Life and Foundation of Duck Commander
Born on April 24, 1946, in rural northern Louisiana, Robertson grew up in a large family with seven children facing significant financial hardships. Despite these challenges, he excelled academically and athletically, earning a football scholarship to Louisiana Tech University. His exceptional talent on the field caught the attention of professional scouts, with the Washington Redskins reportedly showing interest in recruiting him. However, Robertson’s passion for hunting ultimately superseded his football aspirations.
“Terry went for the bucks, and I chased after the ducks,” Robertson once famously remarked about his decision to forgo professional football in favor of his hunting pursuits, referencing his college teammate Terry Bradshaw, who went on to become an NFL Hall of Fame quarterback.
After completing his bachelor’s degree in physical education and later earning a master’s degree in education, Robertson worked as a teacher and commercial fisherman. However, his entrepreneurial spirit and dissatisfaction with existing duck hunting equipment led him to develop his own duck call in 1972. This innovation became the foundation of the Duck Commander Company, which he incorporated in 1973 and which would eventually grow into a multimillion-dollar enterprise under the leadership of his son Willie Robertson.
Rise to Television Fame
The Robertson family’s journey from local hunting business to national celebrity began with appearances on hunting programs before culminating in the launch of “Duck Dynasty” on A&E in 2012. The reality series, which followed the daily lives and business operations of the Robertson clan in West Monroe, Louisiana, quickly became a cultural phenomenon.
The show’s unique blend of family dynamics, Southern humor, and unapologetic Christian faith resonated with millions of Americans. By 2013, “Duck Dynasty” had broken multiple viewership records, with its fourth season premiere drawing nearly 12 million viewers, making it the most-watched cable show in television history at that time. The series ran for 11 successful seasons before concluding in 2017, cementing the Robertson family’s place in American pop culture.
Conservative Political Advocacy
Beyond his entertainment career, Robertson became a prominent voice in conservative political circles. His outspoken Christian faith and traditional values made him a sought-after speaker at political events and conservative gatherings, including appearances at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC).
Robertson’s political involvement intensified during the 2016 presidential election cycle. Initially supporting Senator Ted Cruz during the Republican primaries, he eventually endorsed Donald Trump when Cruz withdrew from the race. His support for Trump remained consistent throughout subsequent election cycles, including the 2024 campaign.
The relationship between Robertson and Trump was notably showcased during a 2019 campaign rally in Monroe, Louisiana, where Trump invited Robertson and his son Willie on stage. During this appearance, Robertson delivered what would become one of his most memorable political statements: “If you’re pro-God and pro-America and pro-gun and pro-duck hunting… That’s all I want!”
Robertson’s political philosophy was deeply rooted in his Christian faith and conservative principles. In a 2020 podcast appearance, he described Trump as “caustically brilliant” and explained his political support in terms of practical results rather than personality, stating, “I weigh a man in politics — I judge them by what they’ve done.”
Controversies and Cultural Impact
Robertson’s career was not without controversy. In 2013, he faced significant backlash following comments made during a GQ magazine interview regarding homosexuality and sin. When asked to describe what he considered sinful behavior, Robertson made remarks that many found offensive, leading to his temporary suspension from “Duck Dynasty” by A&E network.
The suspension lasted only nine days, as the network faced intense pressure from fans and conservative supporters who viewed the action as an attack on religious freedom and free speech. High-profile conservative figures, including former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, rallied to Robertson’s defense, framing the controversy as a broader cultural battle over traditional values and religious expression.
Conservative activist Charlie Kirk later praised Robertson’s handling of the controversy, writing, “When the woke era was first getting started, Phil offered a masterclass in how to overcome an attempted cancellation… he never apologized or backed down, and A&E soon had to bring him back.”
Health Struggles and Final Years
In December 2024, Robertson’s family revealed that he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease along with an unspecified blood disorder that was affecting his overall health. His son Jase Robertson shared during a family podcast that their father was struggling with significant health challenges and was experiencing considerable physical discomfort.
Despite his declining health, Robertson’s influence continued through various media appearances and the ongoing success of family business ventures. A&E announced plans for “Duck Dynasty: The Revival,” set to premiere in June 2025, though Robertson was not expected to participate due to his health condition.
Legacy and Tributes
Following news of Robertson’s death, tributes poured in from across the conservative political spectrum and Christian community. Republican Representative Chip Roy of Texas captured the sentiment of many supporters, posting on social media: “Phil is what makes America great. Faith in Jesus, hard work, happiness, family, and love of freedom.”
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders offered her condolences, describing Robertson as “a living example of what God can do in all of our lives if we follow Him. He was a bright light for the world to see.”
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene and numerous other conservative figures expressed their sympathies, while right-wing activist Charlie Kirk called Robertson “an American icon and an inspiring hero to millions of Americans.”
Personal Life and Survivors
Robertson married his wife, Marsha Kay, in 1966 when she was 17 years old, following her pregnancy with their first child. The couple remained married for nearly 59 years until his death. In 2020, it was revealed that Robertson had a daughter, Phyllis, from an extramarital affair in the 1970s, whom he welcomed into the family.
Robertson is survived by his wife Kay, five children, numerous grandchildren, and his brother Si Robertson, who was also featured on “Duck Dynasty.” His legacy extends beyond his immediate family through the continued operation of Duck Commander and the various media ventures that bear the Robertson name.
Cultural and Business Impact
The success of “Duck Dynasty” and the Robertson family’s various business ventures created a significant economic impact both locally in Louisiana and nationally. The show’s popularity led to numerous spin-offs, merchandise lines, and related entertainment properties. Robertson’s autobiography, “Happy, Happy, Happy: My Life and Legacy as the Duck Commander,” became a bestseller in 2013.
In 2023, Robertson’s life story was adapted into the biographical film “The Blind,” which became one of the highest-grossing releases for Fathom Events, earning over $17 million at the box office and further cementing his cultural influence.
Conclusion
Phil Robertson’s death marks the end of a uniquely American story that encompassed entrepreneurship, entertainment success, religious devotion, and political advocacy. From his humble beginnings in rural Louisiana to his status as a national conservative icon, Robertson’s life reflected many of the cultural and political tensions that have defined contemporary America.
Whether viewed as a champion of traditional values or a controversial figure, Robertson’s impact on American popular culture and conservative politics remains undeniable. His legacy will continue through his family’s ongoing business ventures, the enduring popularity of “Duck Dynasty,” and the countless individuals who were influenced by his outspoken faith and unwavering commitment to his principles.
As his family stated in their announcement of his passing, Robertson will be remembered as a man whose “bold faith” and desire to share his religious convictions touched millions of lives across the nation and beyond.
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