Phil Robertson, ‘Duck Dynasty’ Star and Family Patriarch, Dies at 79

Phil Robertson, the beloved patriarch of the Robertson family and star of the popular reality TV show Duck Dynasty, has passed away at the age of 79. Known for his strong faith, long beard, and country wisdom, Phil left behind a powerful legacy that touched millions.

Phil’s family shared the news of his passing on social media. His daughter-in-law, Korie Robertson, posted a heartfelt message on Facebook, saying, “We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord.” She went on to say that the family finds peace in their faith, quoting the Bible: “You do not grieve like those who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.”

Phil had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in December, as shared on the family’s podcast Unashamed With the Robertson Family. Even in the face of illness, Phil remained focused on his faith and his message of hope. The family said they are thankful for the love and prayers they have received and that they plan to hold a private service for now, with a public celebration of his life to be announced later.

Before becoming a household name, Phil lived a simple life. He worked as a teacher and commercial fisherman. In the 1970s, he invented the Duck Commander duck call, which became a huge success. His invention turned into a multi-million dollar company, now led by his son Willie Robertson.

Phil’s life took a major turn when Duck Dynasty hit television screens in 2012. The show, which aired on A&E until 2017, followed the everyday lives of the Robertson family as they ran their family business, Duck Commander. The show’s unique mix of humor, faith, and family values made it a huge hit. In 2013, it became the most-watched nonfiction series in cable television history. Viewers loved the bearded brothers—Phil, his brother Si, and his sons Willie, Jase, and Jep—as well as the rest of the close-knit family.

Despite his popularity, Phil stirred controversy in 2013 when he made remarks about homosexuality being a sin in an interview. A&E suspended him from the show, but after just nine days, the suspension was lifted, largely due to public support and the show's strong fan base.

Phil’s life story was also shared in a 2023 film titled The Blind – The True Story of the Robertson Family. The movie gave fans a closer look at his journey—from his struggles with alcohol and a broken past to his powerful transformation through faith and family.

Even though Phil won’t appear in the upcoming *Duck Dynasty: Revival, which is set to air this summer on A&E and will star Willie and Korie, his legacy will continue through the show, the family business, and the many people whose lives he touched.

Phil and his wife, known lovingly as “Miss Kay,” were married in 1966 and had four sons: Alan, Jase, Willie, and Jep. They also had 16 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Earlier this year, Miss Kay was hospitalized after a fall, but she continues to recover.

In recent years, the family also welcomed Phil’s daughter Phyllis, whom he discovered later in life through an extramarital relationship. She was warmly embraced by the family, showing the strong bonds and forgiveness that define the Robertsons.

Phil Robertson’s story is one of redemption, love, and faith. He was a man who wasn’t afraid to speak his mind, who loved his family deeply, and who believed in second chances. Though he’s no longer with us, the values he lived by and the joy he brought to millions will live on for years to come.