Duck Dynasty’s Phil Robertson, Known for Christian Faith and Conservative Views, Dies at 79; Family and Fans Mourn

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Reality TV personality Phil Robertson is introduced during pre-race ceremonies for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Duck Commander 500 at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 6, 2014.

Phil Robertson, known for his hunting business, religious views, and political beliefs, requested that people celebrate his life rather than mourn his death. He mentioned this on a podcast with his son Jase in 2023, following back surgery.

The Duck Dynasty star passed away at 79 on Sunday, after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2024, according to family statements on social media.

Jase Robertson on X shared that his father had passed away and is with God. He added that his father would be missed but the family is comforted knowing he is in good hands.

Korie Robertson, Phil Robertson’s daughter-in-law, that they are celebrating Phil Robertson’s passing as he is now with the Lord. She referenced a Bible verse, highlighting Phil Robertson’s reminders of Paul’s words: “you do not grieve like those who have no hope…God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.”

Korie Robertson’s post acknowledged the impact Phil Robertson had on many people and mentioned a private service with details of a public celebration to be shared later.

Sadie Robertson, Phil Robertson’s granddaughter, in tribute, recalling his last words to her: “full strength ahead!”

Phil Robertson of A&E's Duck Dynasty addresses the 42nd annual Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) at the Gaylord National Resort Hotel and Convention Center in National Harbor, Md., on on Feb. 27, 2015. Conservative activists attended the annual political conference to discuss their agenda.

Jase initially spoke publicly about his father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, describing it as being in its “early stages,” on their podcast, Unashamed With the Robertson Family. He mentioned doctors believed Phil Robertson had a blood disease causing various health problems and that his condition was declining, requiring professional care, as stated in an April 2 episode.

Robertson, originally a college football player from Louisiana, created the Duck Commander duck call in 1972. This product became central to a successful hunting gear company run by him and his family.

The family began creating media in 1987 with the Duckmen direct-to-video series. In 2012, A&E launched Duck Dynasty, a popular show that followed the Robertson family and their business until 2017. The show led to spin-offs like Duck Dynasty: The Revival, which is on Willie, Korie, and their children, with a premiere expected this summer.

Robertson was also well-known for his Christian faith and conservative viewpoints. A&E Robertson in 2013 after he described sin in an interview with GQ, mentioning “homosexual behavior.” He also publicly opposed abortion and supported Republican candidates, including Ted Cruz in 2016, before endorsing Donald Trump in and again in .

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders on X that Phil Robertson exemplified what God can achieve in people’s lives, describing him as a “bright light.” She and her husband, Bryan, are praying for the Robertson family.

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