Phil Robertson Getty Images
The reality television series Duck Dynasty, which first graced the screens of A&E in 2012, chronicled the life of the Robertson family from Louisiana, instantly becoming a cultural phenomenon. Amid this show’s charming chaos stood the family’s patriarch, Phil Robertson, whose recent passing has left a void felt by many.
Phil Robertson, a beloved figure in reality television, has died, leaving family, friends, and millions of fans in mourning.
The news of his passing was announced by Korie Robertson, his daughter-in-law, married to Phil’s son Willie. She gracefully shared this loss with the world through a heartfelt Facebook post on Sunday.
“We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord,” she expressed. “He reminded us often of the words of Paul, ‘you do not grieve like those who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.’”
Korie further expressed gratitude for the “love and prayers” expressed by countless individuals touched by Phil’s life, emphasizing his journey of grace, robust faith, and his ceaseless mission to spread the Good News of Jesus to all willing to hear. “We are grateful for his life on earth and will continue the legacy of love for God and love for others until we see him again.”
Many have been influenced by his life, and to these individuals, the Robertson family extended a promise of a public celebration of Phil’s life after the privacy of their immediate service.
The message concluded with signatures from “The Robertson Family.”
Although the specifics of his death weren’t disclosed, the family previously shared that Phil had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and was battling a significant blood disease.
Duck Dynasty, since its inception in 2012, drew massive attention, running for an impressive 11 seasons before concluding in 2017. The series offered an inside look into the operations of Duck Commander, Phil’s enterprise known for crafting duck calls and other hunting products.
In their tribute, A&E acknowledged, “We are saddened to hear of the passing of Phil Robertson, a hunting industry pioneer and the patriarch of the beloved Robertson family. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time. We extend our deepest condolences and respect their privacy as they grieve.”
During its peak, the series attracted nearly 12 million viewers, marking it as the most-watched nonfiction series in cable history, according to A&E.
Korie and Willie Robertson are also set to bring back some Duck Dynasty charm with Duck Dynasty: The Revival, a new reality series making its debut on A&E this Wednesday.