Phil Robertson, 'Duck Dynasty' patriarch and Duck Commander founder, dies at 79
Phil Robertson, the iconic bearded patriarch of A&E Network’s hit reality series Duck Dynasty and the visionary behind Duck Commander, has died at the age of 79. His family confirmed the news Sunday through a heartfelt Facebook post by daughter-in-law Korie Robertson.
Phil Robertson of “Duck Dynasty” speaking at the Republican Leadership Conference in New Orleans in 2014.
Mr. Robertson, flanked by his sons Jase and Willie, in an episode of “Duck Dynasty.”
Edmund D. Fountain/The New York Times
"We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord," Korie wrote. "We are grateful for the love and prayers of so many whose lives have been impacted by his life."
The family had previously shared that Robertson was battling Alzheimer’s disease, diagnosed late last year. Though the exact cause of death has not yet been disclosed, his passing marks the end of a remarkable life steeped in faith, family, and American tradition.
A pioneer in the hunting industry, Phil Robertson revolutionized duck hunting with the creation of the Duck Commander duck call—a product that would ultimately lead to a multimillion-dollar family empire. The success of Duck Commander inspired Duck Dynasty, a cultural phenomenon that ran from 2012 to 2017 and made the Robertson family household names.
Beyond television, Phil Robertson was a respected outdoorsman and devout Christian. His storytelling, humor, and unapologetic faith resonated with millions. Later shows such as In the Woods with Phil and Duck Commander continued his influence in Christian and rural communities.
Before his fame in the duck blinds and on cable television, Robertson was a star athlete. As Louisiana Tech’s starting quarterback in the mid-1960s, he famously turned down a career in the NFL—handing the position to none other than Terry Bradshaw. “I’d rather hunt ducks than have large violent men stomp me in the dirt,” Robertson once said, reflecting his lifelong love for the outdoors.
Zach Dilgard/A&E
His outspoken political views and controversial remarks—particularly a 2013 interview with GQ Magazine—brought both criticism and support. Despite temporary suspension from A&E, Robertson remained a conservative icon, endorsing political figures such as Ted Cruz and Donald Trump.
Producers of Duck Dynasty released a statement honoring the late patriarch: “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.”
Louisiana Tech also paid tribute: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of former LA Tech quarterback, Phil Robertson. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Robertson family.”
A private funeral will be held, and a public celebration of his life is being planned, the family confirmed.
Phil Robertson leaves behind a legacy defined by unwavering faith, deep family roots, and a transformative impact on American outdoor culture.
