WEST MONROE, La. — Phil Robertson, the visionary behind the Duck Commander empire and a significant figure in conservative culture, passed away on Sunday at the age of 79, as confirmed by his family. Robertson's legacy began with a modest passion for duck calling in the picturesque region of northern Louisiana, known as the Sportsman’s Paradise.
In December, Robertson’s family revealed on their podcast, Unashamed With the Robertson Family, that he had been battling Alzheimer’s disease. While the family's social media statement did not disclose the specific cause of his death, his daughter-in-law, Korie Robertson, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming love and prayers from those touched by his life. “His life, saved by grace, his bold faith, and his desire to share the Good News of Jesus will always be remembered,” she wrote, emphasizing the family's commitment to continuing his legacy of love for God and others.
Phil Robertson's ascent to fame began in the early 2010s when A&E launched the reality series Duck Dynasty. The show, presented in a sitcom format, showcased the daily lives of Robertson, his three sons—including Willie, who leads the family’s Duck Commander company—and their extended family. The Robertson family quickly became iconic, recognized for their long beards and staunchly conservative, Christian values.
However, Robertson's outspoken nature led to controversy. In a 2013 interview, he made remarks about homosexuality and race that resulted in his suspension from Duck Dynasty. Following significant public backlash, including support from figures like Sarah Palin, A&E reinstated him. Despite the family's acknowledgment of his comments as coarse, they defended his beliefs as biblically grounded and expressed their inability to envision the show continuing without him.
A lifelong resident of Louisiana, Phil Robertson was born in the heart of the state and spent his life immersed in the woods and lakes that define the region. He was not only an avid hunter but also played football at Louisiana Tech and worked as a school teacher. In the early 1970s, he crafted a duck call that perfectly mimicked the sound of a duck, which became the cornerstone of the Duck Commander business, eventually transforming it into a multimillion-dollar enterprise.
Under his leadership, Duck Commander evolved beyond just selling hunting gear; it became a lifestyle brand. A&E captured this essence in their promotional material, stating, “The Robertsons face everything from beavers to business deals in their own special way — with a twist of downhome practicality and a sharp sense of humor.”
Following the announcement of his death, tributes poured in from across the political spectrum, especially from conservative politicians. Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz expressed his condolences on X, stating, “The great PhilRobertson passed today. He loved Jesus & he was utterly fearless. One of my fondest memories was duck hunting with Phil — he was the best shot I ever met.”
Former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson also shared his sadness on X, recalling his time spent with Robertson and his family, highlighting the warmth of their hospitality and deep faith. A&E also issued a tribute through their Duck Dynasty account, mourning the loss of a “hunting industry pioneer and the patriarch of the beloved Robertson family,” while respecting the family's privacy during their time of grief.
Phil Robertson's indelible mark on both the hunting industry and conservative culture will be felt for years to come. His commitment to faith, family, and the outdoors has left a lasting legacy that resonates with many.
