Phil Robertson, the patriarch of the Duck Dynasty family and founder of Duck Commander, passed away on May 25, 2025, at 79. His death followed a long battle with multiple health complications, including Alzheimer’s disease, a blood disorder, several suspected strokes, and a fractured back. Despite his declining health, he remained a deeply spiritual figure, continuing to share his Christian faith through books, television appearances, and his popular podcast, Unashamed, which he hosted with his sons.
Born on April 24, 1946, in Vivian, Louisiana, Phil initially pursued football, playing quarterback at Louisiana Tech University. Interestingly, he played ahead of future NFL Hall of Famer Terry Bradshaw. Despite his athletic talents, Robertson declined a professional football career to focus on his passion for hunting and the outdoors. In 1972, he founded Duck Commander, a company specializing in duck calls, which laid the foundation for his family’s future fame.
Phil rose to national prominence in 2012 with the debut of Duck Dynasty on A&E. The reality show, which ran until 2017, offered a humorous and heartfelt glimpse into the lives of the Robertson family and their duck call business. The show quickly became a cultural phenomenon, in large part due to Phil’s old-fashioned wisdom, strong faith, and conservative values. He also sparked controversy in 2013 after comments he made about homosexuality in a GQ interview, which led to a temporary suspension from the show.
In 2020, Phil learned of a daughter he had fathered in the 1970s, Phyllis, and welcomed her into the family, adding a surprising but joyful chapter to his life. His family remembers him as a man of unwavering faith and deep love for God and family. Korie Robertson, his daughter-in-law, described him as leaving a “legacy of faith and love.”
Plans for a public memorial service are expected to be announced. Phil Robertson leaves behind his wife, Kay; their children; many grandchildren; and millions of fans who admired his unapologetic convictions and rustic charm
