The Robertson family has returned to television with a revival of their hit series “Duck Dynasty” after the passing of family patriarch Phil Robertson. The A&E show aired its first episode on June 1, featuring Willie Robertson, his wife Korie, and their children and grandchildren as they transition into the new chapter of their lives. Phil Robertson, who founded Duck Commander in 1972, passed away at 79 after revealing his battle with Alzheimer’s disease months earlier.
The original “Duck Dynasty” series, which premiered in 2012 and ended in 2017, had Phil as a vital part of its cast. Willie Robertson now serves as the CEO of Duck Commander. In the first episode of the revival, Willie contemplates his future with the company and announces his plans to “semi-retire” from his role, sparking a hunt for his successor.
He takes his children—John Luke, Bella, Sadie, and Will—duck hunting to evaluate who might be best suited to take over the company’s leadership.
Phil’s legacy and family future
During the episode, Si Robertson teases Willie for not spending enough time hunting or visiting the Duck Commander headquarters over the past year, prompting Willie to reevaluate his engagement with the business.
Korie Robertson shared the family’s grief and celebration of Phil’s life through a heartfelt social media post. “We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord,” she wrote. She relayed Phil’s frequently shared biblical reflections, comforting the family and their followers.
The inaugural episode concluded with a family dinner where the Robertsons introduced Rebecca’s new son, Xander, born in November. In light of Phil’s passing and the show’s return, the Robertsons aim to continue the legacy of faith and family values he left behind. “Duck Dynasty: The Revival” airs Sundays on A&E network at 9/8c.
