Phil Robertson, the iconic bearded patriarch of Duck Dynasty, has died at the age of 79, his family confirmed on Sunday, May 25. The announcement was made via multiple social media channels, including a heartfelt post on his official Facebook page.
“We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord,” the family wrote.
Robertson passed away following a long battle with serious health issues, including Alzheimer’s disease and an unspecified blood disorder. Although the family has not confirmed the exact cause of death, they had previously shared that the beloved Duck Commander founder was struggling in recent months.
Alzheimer’s and Health Struggles
In December 2024, his son Jase Robertson revealed on the family’s Unashamed podcast that Phil had been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s. At the time, the family also mentioned a troubling blood condition that was affecting Phil’s entire body.
Jase had described his father’s decline candidly:
“He’s really struggling… his memory’s not what it once was.”
Despite his deteriorating condition, Phil was determined to continue contributing to the family’s podcast and legacy projects — even as he faced constant pain and mobility issues.
From Duck Calls to Reality TV Fame
Born in Louisiana, Phil Robertson became a household name after founding Duck Commander, a company that revolutionized duck calls and waterfowl hunting gear. But it was the hit A&E show Duck Dynasty that catapulted him and his family to international fame.
Premiering in 2012, Duck Dynasty ran for 11 successful seasons, offering viewers a mix of faith, family values, and humor rooted in rural life and Christian beliefs. At its peak, the show was one of cable TV’s most-watched reality series.
But the ride wasn’t without controversy. In 2013, Phil was temporarily suspended by A&E after making polarizing comments on homosexuality and race in a GQ interview. He later returned to the show amid public backlash and widespread support from fans.
The Legacy Lives On
Even in his final years, Phil Robertson remained an outspoken voice in conservative media and Christian circles. In January 2025, the Robertsons announced their return to television with a reboot series titled Duck Dynasty: The Revival, set to premiere June 1. It focuses on the new generation of the family, while still honoring its roots — and, clearly, its patriarch.
Phil is survived by his wife Kay Robertson, their four sons — Willie, Jase, Alan, and Jep Robertson — and a large, tight-knit family that includes grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his famously quirky brother, Si Robertson.
In 2020, Phil also made headlines after discovering and reconnecting with a long-lost daughter, Phyllis, from a decades-old affair. That emotional reunion added another chapter to the already complex and deeply human story of Phil Robertson’s life.
A Private Farewell, A Public Celebration Ahead
Korie Robertson, wife of Willie, shared that a private family service will be held, with details about a public memorial to be announced soon.
“Thank you for the love and prayers of so many whose lives have been impacted by his life,” the family said in a statement.
Phil Robertson may be gone, but the mark he left on pop culture, outdoor life, and faith-based entertainment will not be forgotten.
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