The world of reality television and outdoor adventure has lost one of its most recognisable figures, with the passing of the patriarch of the Duck Dynasty family at the age of 79.
For many Australians, Duck Dynasty was more than just a quirky American TV show—it was a window into a unique family business, a celebration of faith, and a reminder of the power of resilience and togetherness.
Phil Robertson’s daughter-in-law, Korie Robertson, broke the news to fans on social media, sharing a heartfelt message that captured the sorrow and hope of such a loss.
‘We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord,’ she wrote.
‘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.’
Korie also reassured fans that there would be an opportunity to publicly celebrate Phil’s life, though the family is holding a private service.
‘We know so many of you love him and have been impacted by his life,’ she said.
Phil Robertson’s story is a classic tale of humble beginnings and hard-earned success. Before he became a household name, Phil was a teacher and commercial fisherman.
But his invention of the Duck Commander duck call—a tool for hunting ducks—changed everything. What started as a small family business grew into a multi-million-dollar empire, with the Robertson clan at its heart.
The family’s journey was catapulted into the spotlight with the launch of Duck Dynasty in 2012. The show, which ran until 2017, quickly became the most-watched nonfiction cable series in history, drawing in millions of viewers with its blend of humour, family values, and down-to-earth wisdom.
The series followed Phil, his brother Si, and his sons Jase, Willie, and Jep as they navigated the ups and downs of running Duck Commander while keeping their faith and family ties front and centre.
Phil Robertson was never shy about sharing his beliefs. His faith was a cornerstone of both his personal life and his public persona, and it resonated with fans around the world.
In recent years, Phil’s health had become a concern for his family and fans. His son Jase revealed in December that Phil was in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, a diagnosis that brought new challenges for the family.
On a recent Unashamed with the Robertson Family podcast episode, Jase spoke candidly about his father’s condition, admitting, ‘The No. 1 question I get everywhere I go [is], “How’s your dad doing?” Now, I’m just giving the blunt truth. I say, “Not good”.’
‘We’re making him comfortable and we’re doing the best we can. I think that’s just what you do,’ he said.
The family’s honesty about their journey with Alzheimer’s has helped raise awareness and offered comfort to others facing similar battles.
While Phil’s passing marks the end of an era, the Robertson legacy is far from over. A reboot of the beloved show, Duck Dynasty: Revival, is in the works, with Korie, Willie Robertson, and their family set to star.
Did you watch Duck Dynasty? Did Phil Robertson’s story resonate with you or your family? Have you or someone you love faced the challenges of Alzheimer’s?
Share your thoughts, memories, and tributes in the comments below. Let’s celebrate a life that touched so many, and support each other as we remember a true original.
Also read: TV icon Joanna Lumley opens up about life at 79 and facing unique challenges
What makes someone an icon? There seem to be a lot of hem dying these days?
Is it the new version of legend?
My family says that I’m a Legend but I’m just a joker who looks after his family and tries to do good stuff and hurt no one. Not a Legend, just an Aussie bloke.
Never heard of it.