Phil Robertson, the bearded and beloved patriarch of the Robertson family who rose to national fame through the hit A&E reality television series Duck Dynasty, has died at the age of 79. His death was confirmed by his son, Jase Robertson, who shared the news with fans and followers on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday.
“My dad has gone to be with the Lord today!” Jase wrote. “He will be missed but we know he is in good hands, and our family is good because God is very good! We will see him again!”
Phil Robertson became a cultural icon in the 2010s, known for his rugged appearance, unapologetic faith, and deep devotion to family and the outdoors. As the founder of Duck Commander, the Louisiana-based company that manufactures duck calls and hunting gear, Robertson built a multimillion-dollar business that would later become the centerpiece of Duck Dynasty. The show, which ran from 2012 to 2017, captivated audiences with its blend of humor, family values, and homespun wisdom, making it one of the most successful reality shows of its time.
Robertson’s story was not one of overnight fame. Born on April 24, 1946, in Vivian, Louisiana, Phil grew up in a poor but hardworking family. He earned a football scholarship to Louisiana Tech University, where he famously started ahead of future Hall of Fame quarterback Terry Bradshaw. Though he had the talent to pursue a career in the NFL, Robertson ultimately turned away from football to focus on his true passion: hunting and the outdoors.
In the 1970s, Phil invented the Duck Commander duck call, which launched his business empire and laid the foundation for his family’s future fame. But his early life was also marked by personal struggles, including alcoholism and a period of estrangement from his wife, Kay, whom he married in 1966. It wasn’t until the mid-1970s that Robertson underwent a profound Christian conversion, which he often credited with saving his marriage and setting him on a new course in life.
Faith became a defining feature of Phil Robertson’s life and public persona. On Duck Dynasty, he was known for ending each episode with a family prayer around the dinner table. Offscreen, he was an outspoken advocate for Christian values, frequently speaking at churches and conservative events across the country. While his forthright views occasionally sparked controversy — including a 2013 GQ interview that led to a brief suspension from A&E — Robertson remained steadfast in his beliefs and found unwavering support from a loyal fan base.
Beyond television, Robertson authored several best-selling books, including Happy, Happy, Happy, UnPHILtered, and The Theft of America’s Soul. He also hosted the popular podcast Unashamed with Phil & Jase Robertson, which continued the family’s tradition of sharing faith-centered messages and stories with a wide audience.
Phil Robertson’s legacy stretches far beyond the realm of reality TV. He was a symbol of old-school American values — faith, family, hard work, and freedom — and he lived those values unapologetically. His authenticity, combined with his unique sense of humor and boundless love for the outdoors, endeared him to millions.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Kay Robertson; their four sons, Alan, Jase, Willie, and Jep; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a legacy that will continue through both his family and his ministry.
As news of his passing spreads, tributes have poured in from fans, religious leaders, and fellow public figures who admired Robertson’s strength, faith, and down-to-earth character.
While Phil Robertson’s voice may be silenced, his impact resonates loudly — in the duck blinds of the American South, in homes that cherished Duck Dynasty, and in the hearts of those he inspired with his message of redemption, love, and faith in Jesus Christ.
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