A well-known reality television family is grieving the loss of its cultural and spiritual leader.
Phil Robertson, the bearded patriarch from A&E’s renowned reality series “Duck Dynasty” and the founder of Duck Commander, has passed away at the age of 78. On May 25, 2025, his family paid tribute to his life and legacy through various social media posts, confirming the news.
Along with announcing his passing, Phil Robertson’s official Instagram account shared a message affirming the family’s faith and expressing that they found solace in the belief that he is now with the Lord.
They recalled how Phil often reminded them of the Bible, which encourages believers to steadfastly maintain their faith in the resurrection of Jesus and the assurance of eternal life.
The family expressed their gratitude to everyone for their love and support, emphasizing that Phil’s unwavering faith and commitment to disseminating his message had made a profound impact. By adhering to his values of love and faith, they intend to continue his legacy.
Jase Robertson, Phil’s son, announced on X that his father has passed away to be with the Lord, reflecting the sentiments of the family. He affirmed their belief that they will eventually be reunited with Phil and recognized the sadness of his passing while finding solace in the knowledge that he is under God’s care.
In her thoughts on his spiritual influence, granddaughter Sadie Robertson Huff recalled one of their last conversations: “One of the last things he said to me was ‘full strength ahead!’ Amen!”
She characterized his testimony as transformative for their family and many others, adding, “Now he is experiencing it in the fullness. Fully alive in Christ. The new has come.”
Will Robertson, another grandson, shared a childhood photo and wrote, “my Papaw Phil went home to the Lord today. His life, his testimony, and his devotion to God was so powerful [sic].”
He conveyed his appreciation for Robertson’s influence and legacy, stating, “i’m forever grateful for his time spent on earth, and i’m thankful to know he’s sitting in his recliner talking to Jesus. love you Papaw [sic].”
Jase, Phil’s son, candidly recognized the seriousness of his father’s health challenges in the months preceding his death. He revealed on the family’s “Unashamed” podcast in December 2024 that Phil had been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s and a blood disorder.
“You know Phil’s not doing well,” he remarked. “So if you put those things together… he’s really struggling.
By April 2025, Jase provided a more straightforward update, informing listeners, “Not good. That’s what I said.” He elaborated that the family had organized professional care to assist Phil.
Reflecting on a recent visit, Jase recounted an emotional encounter with their relative Zach. “He kind of stuck his head in the window… and I was like, ‘How’d that go?’ And Zach just lost it,” he remarked. “When you’re in these battles day by day, you kind of compartmentalize everything just so you can deal with it.”
Jace mentioned that the family, especially the younger members, endeavored to ensure Phil was comfortable and well-cared for during his final weeks, despite the difficult circumstances.
Jase also revealed that Phil’s wife, Kay Robertson, was facing significant health issues of her own. She had been hospitalized due to an infection stemming from a fall-related injury. “She was really not doing good,” he stated. “She got an infection from a cut… and she was in the hospital for 11 days.”
At that time, the family was apprehensive about the worst possible outcome. “We were kind of dealing with the fact that maybe this is it,” he added. Although Kay’s condition later improved, she continued to reside in a rehabilitation facility focused on her physical recovery.
Amidst these challenges, the Robertson family was preparing to return to television. “Duck Dynasty: The Revival,” a new 20-episode series produced by Spoke Studios and Tread Lively Productions, was announced by A&E in March 2025.
Willie and Korie Robertson, who also act as executive producers, expressed their excitement about the revival. “We’re thankful for all who have followed along as our family has grown and expanded and can’t wait to get cameras rolling again on all our new adventures, or perhaps misadventures,” they stated.
A Facebook post from the show’s official page on January 23 was the first to hint at the initiative. Plans for a new “Duck Dynasty” revival series were revealed alongside Willie and Korie in their signature camouflage.
