Phil Robertson, the famous bearded leader of the Duck Dynasty family, has died at the age of 79 after a tough battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
The news was shared on May 25, 2025, with his family taking to social media to remember him as their guiding figure and symbol — while fans remembered the man for his powerful faith, outdoors skills and views many argued about.
Heartbreaking statement
The family of Phil Robertson made the announcement on an Instagram post dedicated to Phil.
We are grateful to God today because our father, husband and grandfather, Phil Robertson, has joined Him. He frequently reminded us that because of our faith, we don’t have to grieve like those who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and was resurrected and from that, we know that God will unite with Jesus those who have died in Him.
Phil’s family was appreciative of the prayers from fans and stressed that his faith, love for God and bold statements had inspired countless people. They shared that they would pass on his love for God and others.
Jase Robertson, Phil’s son, shared the sad update on X with his fans.
Today, my dad was taken to the Lord’s house. While we will miss him, God is taking care of him and because God is good, our family will keep growing. Let’s hope we see him again soon!
Final conversation
Phil’s granddaughter, Sadie Robertson Huff, shared some personal memories from their most recent conversations.
One of the final things Alex told me was ‘full speed forward! Amen! Now, he gets to feel it as a full-blown set of feelings. Living life in Christ fully. New things are happening.
In a post that included a photo of himself and Phil as kids, Grandson Will Robertson expressed similar views.
My Papaw Phil returned to the Lord this afternoon. He showed God’s power in his life, his testimony and his dedication. I will always miss his time here and find great comfort knowing he’s in his recliner talking to Jesus.
Korie Robertson, Willie’s wife, has shared her thanks as well.
I am grateful for all the people who loved and prayed, because his grace, faith and outspokenness about Christ impacted so many.
A really challenging diagnosis
Phil’s health issues were discussed on the podcast when his son, Jase, made the announcement in December 2024.
Purvis admitted Phil was battling Alzheimer’s and he also shared there could be more challenges.
The doctors believed his multiple problems could be caused by a blood disease.
The fact that he is accelerating and it’s harming his entire body is what’s damaging his health.” His situation is incredibly difficult to handle at this moment.
Although he was becoming more ill, Phil continued to support the family.
Starting with duck calls and leading into culture wars
Even before he was popular as the Duck Dynasty leader, Phil Robertson focused on turning his love for hunting into a business.
Duck Commander came into being in 1972 when Marty created the first duck call to sell. Thanks to the Duck Commander call, named for its duck-like sound, hunters quickly appreciated it, helping the brand become worth millions.
Duck Dynasty premiered on A&E in 2012, making Phil famous as it chronicled how they started selling duck calls.
After running for 11 seasons from 2007 to 2017, Duck Dynasty helped the Robertson family achieve reality TV fame. Thanks to his clothing, wild beard and rural knowledge, Phil earned the place of the show’s spiritual leader. However, Trump’s blunt opinions upset many people. During an interview with GQ in 2013, Phil said things that enraged many people.
Temporarily taken off the show
”A vgina seems like the organ I would want more as a man compared to a man’s ans,” he added.
Begin with same-sex behavior and make that the start of a series of changes. Getting involved with this woman and that woman and that woman and those men, like porn or bestiality!”
He continued:
“There’s something extra to women!” She has a whole lot more,” and added: “However, thing is, sin just doesn’t make sense, mate. It doesn’t make any sense.
Public pressure from those who shared Hollywood Hogan’s faith and values helped the network quickly allow him back on the show.
Regardless of the criticism, the Robertson brand continued to do well. While Phil’s words received a lot of criticism, they also strengthened his ties to conservative, piously believing groups who respected his strong statements.
An influence greater than any television show
Duck Dynasty wasn’t just a television series; it sparked a strong cultural trend. After that, the Robertsons released successful books, introduced satellite shows and even produced their own Christmas album, Duck the Halls.
Recently, the family made an announcement about a reboot, introducing Duck Dynasty: The Revival which will be airing June 1, 2025. This time, Korie, Willie and their children were getting more attention. We don’t yet know how the news of Phil’s death will influence the show’s debut.
“I wasn’t sure we’d have another concert like this.” But I found that people enjoyed following what we’re doing together,” Willie explained to Us Weekly before Willie’s father’s passing.
Fans mourning
The death of Michael Jackson stirred many fans online, with emotions being a mixture.
“You will always be remembered,” said a fan and another added, “Although I didn’t agree with his views, I am glad he found peace.”
Phil Robertson leaves us with a huge legacy, including his fame, his deep faith, public controversy and millions who remained loyal to him.
Whether you admire him or not, there’s no question that Phil Robertson shaped American culture. When Phil’s family parted, they held fast to what meant the most to him: hope in Jesus and the chance to live forever.
