Phil Robertson, a mainstay on the reality TV scene as the stalwart patriarch on A&E's "Duck Dynasty," has passed away at the age of 79. Robertson was widely recognized for his presence on the program which chronicled the lives of the Louisiana-based Robertson family, their profitable Duck Commander business, and their strong family ties. The show not only gained popularity for its characters but also for stoking controversy, including Robertson's inflammatory comments in a 2013 GQ interview, according to Fox 26 Houston.
The confirmation of Robertson's death came through a post on his official Facebook page, as well as statements from his son, Jase Robertson. It was on Fox 26 Houston where the family expressed, "We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather … is now with the Lord." Korie Robertson, wife to Willie Robertson, shared her thanks on Facebook for the support the family has received, as detailed by Click2Houston. Despite the public nature of his life, the family chose to keep the cause of his death private, although Jase Robertson had revealed last year his father's deteriorating health due to Alzheimer's disease and other complications.
Jase Robertson wrote on an undisclosed platform, "He will be missed but we know he is in good hands, and our family is good because God is very good! We will see him again!" Meanwhile, plans for a new "Duck Dynasty" series entitled "Duck Dynasty: The Revival" are underway, set to premiere this summer on A&E with newer family members joining the cast. This new series will consist of 20 episodes spanning over two seasons, as reported by Fox 26 Houston.
Robertson's contribution to television extended beyond "Duck Dynasty," having been involved in other productions like "In the Woods with Phil" and the earlier "Duck Commander," as per his IMDB profile. The family has announced a private funeral service, accompanied by a forthcoming public celebration to honor Robertson's life. Details of the public event have yet to be revealed, as per Click2Houston.
