Phil Robertson, founder of Duck Commander and outspoken Christian patriarch of the popular A&E series “Duck Dynasty,” has passed away at the age of 79.
A Patriarch’s Passing: Remembering Phil Robertson
WEST MONROE, La. – Phil Robertson, the charismatic patriarch of the Robertson family and a central figure in the hit A&E reality series “Duck Dynasty,” died on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the age of 79. His passing was confirmed by family members through statements released on social media. Robertson, known for his deep Christian faith, rugged Louisiana lifestyle, and founding the successful Duck Commander company, became an unlikely television star and a prominent voice for conservative and Christian values.
His family had previously disclosed in December 2024 that Phil Robertson was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that had reportedly been progressing. He leaves behind a significant legacy as an entrepreneur, television personality, author, and cultural figure who resonated with millions globally.
When and How Did Phil Robertson Die?
Phil Robertson passed away on Sunday, May 25, 2025. While the family’s initial statements did not specify an exact cause of death, they had been open about his battle with Alzheimer’s disease since December 2024. His son, Jase Robertson, had previously shared on the family’s “Unashamed with the Robertson Family” podcast that the Alzheimer’s was in its “early stages” but had “accelerated, and it’s causing problems with his entire body,” adding that his father was “really struggling” and they were “making him comfortable”. Reports also indicated he had been contending with other health issues, including a blood disease and an enlarged spleen, which contributed to his declining health in recent months.
The family’s announcements confirmed his passing but did not immediately release details regarding whether he died at his West Monroe, Louisiana, home or a medical facility. The statements from family members, such as those from his son Willie Robertson and daughter-in-law Korie Robertson, focused on celebrating his life and faith. The Duck Commander company and A&E Network also issued statements mourning his loss.
Who Was Phil Robertson?
Born on April 24, 1946, in Vivian, Louisiana, Phil Alexander Robertson was a quintessential Louisiana reality star who grew up in the state’s “Sportsman’s Paradise”. He attended Louisiana Tech University on a football scholarship, playing first-string quarterback ahead of future NFL legend Terry Bradshaw. After college, he briefly worked as a school teacher before his passion for duck hunting led him down a different path.
In 1972, dissatisfied with the quality of existing duck calls, Phil Robertson invented his own, the Duck Commander, which he claimed perfectly replicated the sound of a duck. This invention became the cornerstone of the Duck Commander company founder‘s business, which he established in West Monroe. The company grew from a small operation into a multi-million dollar enterprise, selling hunting gear and embodying a distinct outdoor lifestyle. This entrepreneurial spirit and unique family dynamic eventually caught the attention of television producers.
The family skyrocketed to international fame with the premiere of “Duck Dynasty” on A&E in 2012. The show, which ran until 2017, depicted the lives of Phil Robertson, his wife Marsha Kay “Miss Kay” Robertson, their sons Alan, Jase, Willie, and Jep, and their extended family and employees. The series was celebrated for its portrayal of family, faith, and humor, though Phil Robertson also became a conservative television figure known for his outspoken views, which sometimes led to controversy. Notably, in 2013, comments he made in a GQ magazine interview regarding homosexuality and remarks about African Americans during the Jim Crow era led to a brief suspension by A&E, which was quickly reversed after public and family outcry. His family defended his statements as rooted in his biblical beliefs, emphasizing he was a “Godly man”. Throughout his public life, Phil Robertson remained a staunch advocate for his Christian faith, often speaking and writing about its importance.
Legacy and Career Impact
The success of “Duck Dynasty” was phenomenal, marking a significant moment in reality television history. The fourth-season premiere in 2013 drew 11.8 million viewers, making it the most-watched nonfiction cable series in history at that time. The show generated substantial revenue through advertising and merchandise, with an estimated $400 million from merchandise alone by late 2013. This immense popularity cemented Phil Robertson‘s status as an American reality TV legend. The show’s unique sitcom-like structure and its focus on “family values” and a portrayal of “real America” were key to its broad appeal, allowing it to resonate deeply with a wide audience and even influence popular culture, from fashion to political discourse.
Beyond television, Phil Robertson was a New York Times bestselling author, with titles including “Happy, Happy, Happy: My Life and Legacy as the Duck Commander,” “unPHILtered,” “The Theft of America’s Soul,” “Jesus Politics,” and “Uncanceled”. He also co-hosted the popular podcast “Unashamed with Phil & Jase Robertson,” further extending his reach as a faith-based celebrity. His entrepreneurial journey with Duck Commander significantly impacted the outdoor and hunting culture, popularizing not just products but a lifestyle rooted in tradition and family. The controversies he faced, while polarizing, also underscored the resilience of the Robertson family brand and Phil’s unwavering commitment to his convictions, which resonated strongly with his dedicated fanbase and solidified his image as a conservative cultural icon.
Reactions from Family and Public
The news of Phil Robertson death prompted an outpouring of tributes from family, public figures, and fans. His son, Jase Robertson, posted on X (formerly Twitter), “My dad has gone to be with the Lord today! 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!”.
Willie Robertson and his wife, Korie Robertson, shared a joint statement on Instagram: “We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord.” Their message continued, quoting scripture and expressing gratitude: “Thank you for the love and prayers of so many whose lives have been impacted by his life saved by grace, his bold faith, and by his desire to tell everyone who would listen the Good News of Jesus. 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”. This consistent emphasis on faith and legacy across family statements highlights a unified narrative, reflecting the values Phil Robertson championed and offering a message of comfort and continuity to their shared audience.
Granddaughter Sadie Robertson Huff shared a touching tribute, revealing some of his last words to her were “full strength ahead!” and reflecting on his profound impact: “I can’t stop thinking about how he lived in the middle of nowhere, in a small, humble home with no cell phone or computer, and yet his life touched millions with the hope of Jesus”.
A&E, the network that aired “Duck Dynasty,” stated: “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”.
Prominent conservative figures also paid tribute. Republican Senator Ted Cruz of Texas wrote on X, “The great #PhilRobertson passed today. He loved Jesus & he was utterly fearless… Rest in peace, my friend”. Ben Carson, former Housing and Urban Development Secretary, shared, “Saddened to hear of the passing of Phil Robertson — a man of deep faith, bold conviction, and unwavering love for his family”. These reactions from national political figures underscore his significance beyond entertainment, affirming his role as an influential voice within conservative circles.
Interestingly, in a resurfaced clip from the family’s “Unashamed” podcast, Phil Robertson himself had expressed how he wished to be remembered: “When I die, don’t cry. Dance, sing — but don’t cry when I die… When I die, you say ‘He made it, because I watched him as he walked through the years’ — don’t cry”. This personal directive offers a unique frame for his passing, encouraging a celebration of his life and faith.
Funeral and Memorial Information: Arrangements and Tributes
Following Phil Robertson‘s passing, his family announced that initial services would be private. In their statement, Willie and Korie Robertson shared, “We’re having a private service for now, but we’ll share details soon about a public celebration of his life”. This approach allows the family time for personal grieving while acknowledging the public’s desire to honor the Duck Dynasty star.
While specific Phil Robertson funeral details for the public memorial have not yet been released, it is anticipated that any large-scale service would likely take place in or near West Monroe, Louisiana, his lifelong home and the heart of the Robertson family’s community. The A&E network also expressed respect for the family’s privacy as they grieve. The plan for both private and public remembrances reflects a common practice for public figures, balancing the intimate needs of the family with the widespread desire to pay tribute to a man who touched many lives as both a private individual and a celebrated American reality TV legend.
FAQs
What was the cause of Phil Robertson’s death?
The official cause of Phil Robertson’s death was not immediately specified by his family following his passing on May 25, 2025. However, it was publicly known that Phil Robertson had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in December 2024. His son, Jase Robertson, had previously indicated that the illness “accelerated” and was causing significant health challenges throughout his body. Reports also mentioned he had been dealing with additional health issues, including a blood disease and an enlarged spleen, in the months leading up to his death
How old was Phil Robertson when he died?
Phil Robertson was 79 years old at the time of his passing on May 25, 2025. He was born on April 24, 1946, in Vivian, Louisiana. His life spanned nearly eight decades, during which he transitioned from a Louisiana sportsman to a successful entrepreneur and an internationally recognized television personality.
Who is Phil Robertson’s wife and family?
Phil Robertson was married to Marsha Kay “Miss Kay” Robertson (née Carroway) since 1966. They are the parents of four sons prominently featured on “Duck Dynasty”: Alan Robertson, Jase Robertson, Willie Robertson, and Jep Robertson. Later in life, Phil also reconnected with a daughter, Phyllis. He was the patriarch of the extensive Robertson family, which includes numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, many of whom were involved in the Duck Commander company and the reality show.
What was Phil Robertson famous for?
Phil Robertson was best known as the inventor of the Duck Commander duck call and the founder of the Duck Commander company. He achieved global fame as the patriarch and star of the highly successful A&E reality TV series “Duck Dynasty,” which aired from 2012 to 2017 and depicted his family’s business and Southern Christian lifestyle in Louisiana. A prominent Louisiana reality star, he was also recognized for his strong Christian faith, outspoken conservative views, and as the author of several bestselling books, making him a notable faith-based celebrity and conservative television figure.
Will there be a public memorial for Phil Robertson?
Yes, the family of Phil Robertson has indicated their intention to hold a public celebration of his life. While initial funeral services will be private, his son Willie Robertson and daughter-in-law Korie Robertson stated that details for a public event will be shared at a later date. This will provide an opportunity for fans and the wider public to pay their respects to the Duck Dynasty star. Information regarding the Phil Robertson funeral details for this public gathering will be announced by the family in due course.