Phil Robertson, the founder of Duck Commander and patriarch of Duck Dynasty, died on May 25, 2025, at age 79. He passed in West Monroe, Louisiana.
A Life Rooted in the Outdoors
Phil Robertson was born in 1947 in Vivian, Louisiana, and grew up in a big, working-class family. From an early age, he felt at home in the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land weren’t just hobbies for him—they became the foundation of who he was.
He went on to play college football at Louisiana Tech, where he started as quarterback ahead of Terry Bradshaw. Though he had the talent to chase a pro career, Robertson chose a different path. Instead of the spotlight, he wanted a simpler life rooted in his values and his love for the natural world.
The Birth of Duck Commander
In 1972, Phil Robertson turned his passion for the outdoors into a business when he founded Duck Commander. Working out of a small shed behind his house, he crafted every duck call by hand, paying close attention to detail. His focus on quality and authenticity quickly earned the company a strong reputation among hunters.
Over time, Duck Commander grew from those humble beginnings into one of the most trusted names in waterfowl hunting. Even as the brand expanded nationwide, it stayed a family operation, with Phil’s sons stepping in to help guide the business as it took off.
National Fame Through ‘Duck Dynasty’
In 2012, the Robertson family stepped into the national spotlight with the launch of Duck Dynasty on A&E. The show gave viewers a window into their world—blending hunting, family traditions, and strong expressions of Christian faith with the day-to-day operations of Duck Commander.
The series quickly became a cultural hit, ranking among the most-watched reality shows on television. At its height, it drew millions of viewers and introduced the Robertson lifestyle to households across the country.
Phil Robertson’s plainspoken style and traditional beliefs sometimes stirred controversy, but he never wavered. Throughout his life, he remained a firm advocate for Christianity and conservative values, standing by the principles he believed in.
A Lasting Legacy
Phil Robertson, founder of Duck Commander and central figure of the hit A&E reality series Duck Dynasty, passed away on May 25, 2025, in West Monroe, Louisiana. He was 79.
Born in 1947 in Vivian, Louisiana, Robertson grew up in a large, working-class family where hunting, fishing, and living off the land became central to his identity. He went on to play college football at Louisiana Tech, where he started as quarterback ahead of Terry Bradshaw. Though he had the skill to pursue a professional career, Robertson chose a quieter path rooted in his love for the outdoors and his values.
In 1972, he founded Duck Commander, crafting duck calls by hand in a small shed behind his home. His commitment to quality and authenticity helped the company grow from humble beginnings into one of the most respected brands in waterfowl hunting. Even as the business expanded across the country, it remained a family-run operation, with his sons stepping in to help lead the company.
The Robertson family rose to national fame in 2012 with the launch of Duck Dynasty. The show showcased their family life, hunting traditions, and Christian faith, becoming one of the most-watched reality shows of its time. Millions tuned in each week to catch a glimpse of the Robertson lifestyle.
Phil’s outspoken nature and deeply held beliefs sometimes drew controversy, but he stood firm in his convictions. Throughout his life, he was a vocal advocate for Christianity, conservative values, and a way of life built on simplicity and self-reliance.
Phil Robertson leaves behind a lasting legacy in both the hunting and entertainment worlds. He is survived by his wife of more than 50 years, Marsha Kay “Miss Kay” Robertson, their children, including Willie Robertson, as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Beyond the success of Duck Commander and Duck Dynasty, he is remembered most for his dedication to faith, family, and the outdoors.
FAQ’s
What happened to Phil Robertson’s Duck Dynasty?
Duck Dynasty wrapped up after several successful seasons. The family decided to step back from the cameras and return to a more private life, but they still run their businesses and share updates with fans.
Why did Phil Robertson pass away?
Phil Robertson is still alive. There have been rumors online, but they aren’t true. He continues to live in Louisiana and occasionally appears in family projects.
What is Phil Robertson suffering from?
Phil has talked about health issues in the past, including some age-related struggles, but nothing life-threatening has been confirmed publicly.
How is Miss Kay doing after Phil Robertson’s death?
Miss Kay is doing well, and Phil is very much alive. They continue to share their faith and family life with fans, and Miss Kay often appears in interviews and family updates.
What happened to Phil’s wife on Duck Dynasty?
Miss Kay, Phil’s wife, is still active in the family. She’s known for her cooking, her faith, and her role as the heart of the Robertson clan.
Is the Blind movie a true story?
Yes. The Blind is based on Phil Robertson’s early life and his struggles before turning his life around through faith and family.
Which one of the Duck Dynasty families died?
There have been some losses connected to extended friends or relatives, but the main Robertson family from the show is still alive.
Did Miss Kate from Duck Dynasty pass away?
There’s no main cast member named Miss Kate on Duck Dynasty. You might be thinking of Miss Kay, who is still alive.
Why is Phil not returning to Duck Dynasty?
The show ended after the family decided to move away from reality TV. Phil has chosen to focus on his faith, family, and outdoor lifestyle rather than step back into the spotlight.