Phil Robertson Death Hoax Explained: Duck Dynasty Patriarch Still Alive Amid Viral Rumors

Reality-TV icon and businessman Phil Robertson has died at the age of 79, his family confirmed late Sunday, May 25 2025. Family Confirms Death After Alzheimer’s Fight Robertson’s daughter-in-law Korie shared a heartfelt Facebook post announcing that the “Duck Dynasty” patriarch “is now with the Lord,” adding that loved ones “celebrate his life saved by grace” and plan a private funeral followed by a public celebration at a later date. The family revealed last December that the outdoorsman had been battling Alzheimer’s disease. From Quarterback to Duck Commander Born in Vivian, Louisiana, in 1946, Phil Alexander Robertson played quarterback at Louisiana Tech before turning his back on football to pursue hunting and a teaching career. In 1972 he invented the Duck Commander duck call, transforming a backyard idea into a multimillion-dollar empire now run by son Willie. That family business became the backbone of A&E’s smash hit “Duck Dynasty,” which ran from 2012-2017 and at its peak drew more than 11 million viewers per episode. A Controversial but Unapologetic Figure Robertson’s outspoken Christian faith often made headlines. He was briefly suspended from “Duck Dynasty” in 2013 after labeling homosexuality a sin in a magazine interview, but returned to the show nine days later. His life story hit the big screen in 2023 with “The Blind,” and A&E is slated to debut “Duck Dynasty: Revival” this summer—though Robertson, who had already stepped back from TV, was not scheduled to appear. Tributes and Industry Reaction Fans, faith leaders and fellow reality-TV personalities flooded social media Sunday night, praising Robertson’s “bold faith” and entrepreneurial spirit. A&E issued a statement calling him “an American original whose authenticity resonated with millions,” while former co-star Uncle Si tweeted, “My big brother’s in a better hunting spot now.” Legacy Beyond Television Robertson authored multiple best-selling memoirs and devotionals, spoke at churches nationwide and helped expand Duck Commander into sauces, apparel and even a “Duck Commander 500” NASCAR sponsorship. Forbes once estimated the family’s combined fortune at over $400 million. What’s Next for Duck Commander Company officials say day-to-day operations will continue under CEO Willie Robertson. Analysts expect a surge in demand for Duck Commander merchandise and reruns of classic “Duck Dynasty” episodes as viewers revisit Robertson’s most memorable moments. Funeral Plans The family has asked for privacy while they hold an invitation-only service in West Monroe, Louisiana. Details for a public memorial and live-streamed celebration of life will be announced “in the coming days,” according to Korie. Search-Friendly Quick Facts • Phil Robertson death date: May 25 2025 • Age at death: 79 • Cause of death: complications from Alzheimer’s disease • Survivors: wife Kay, five children (Willie, Jase, Jep, Alan, Phyllis) and numerous grandchildren • Net worth at time of death: estimated $15 million personally, family holdings significantly higher • Funeral: private, with public service forthcoming For fans of “Duck Dynasty,” the distinctive growl of Phil Robertson’s voice may be silent, but his catchphrase “happy, happy, happy” and his unfiltered faith will echo across bayous—and TV screens—for generations to come.