Remember the Duck Dynasty or Robertson family? Even a few years ago, the clan from Louisiana was the “talk of reality TV.” And why not? They were an “authentic” family practicing Christianity and had down-to-earth, sensible values, making them top favorites among many. Somehow things changed drastically after Phil Robertson the family’s patriarch.
The controversy didn’t go down well with the iconic Robertsons, and that was evident. Though their popularity didn’t diminish much, at least from the airwaves, the family somehow went down. And that is because the ratings were dipping. In 2017 (March 29) that A&E hosted the show that was popular as the family’s “final duck hunt.” The show going off-air was a good decision. The question remained- what happened with the Robertsons?
The Start Of The Big Controversy
The American viewers who made up the lion’s share of the TV viewing audience were in for a shock in 2013. This was when Robertson made headlines with his “homophobic and racist statements.”
The Duck Dynasty cast had to suffer the backlash after loyalists criticized this act from the family patriarch. His suspension was enough for A&E to keep away from extreme results that would affect the show.
Phil And Kay’s Non-Plan Plan
In one of the interviews with the local news station called KNOE 8, both Kay and Phil Robertson said they had not got any plan. They expected life to come as it would. Like, Phil was keen to spend the major part of this life in the woods, while Kay hoped to settle for a ‘quieter life,’ even when she knew her work included regular cooking for no less than 10-30 people. No matter what, Kay openly said how she would probably sneak biscuits to feed the crew.
Phil knew how packing up and moving on meant it was for good. To him, life was more than merely doing these shows. But there’s more than what meets the eye! Robertson as the family patriarch has carved a great picture of himself “happily checking duck blinds” through the day. He spent a considerable time, just amidst the wilderness of Louisiana.
There’s A Lot More Than Mere Hunting
Phil became highly active politically at the initial stages of the 2016 US Presidential Election. He extended considerable support for Ted Cruz, the Republican candidate, which was awkward with Willie, his son. Later, he got along well in Trump’s camp and contributed much but quietly in conservative politics.
Kay and Phil also started speaking at conferences and churches, especially preaching their spiritual and religious beliefs. They strongly felt the need to help neighbors and live ‘a godly life’.
Korie’s Political Calling
Duck commander Willie Robertson also moved into politics. In 2016, he also spoke at the National Convention after rendering considerable support to Donald Trump. SO much was his closeness to Trump that he ensured he attended the inauguration, following up with a visit at the White House.
But that’s not what he has stopped at. Alongside wife Korie, the duo decided to reopen their local restaurant, themed on families, called ‘Duck Diner.’ Together with Matco Moran, his restaurant partner, Willie had organized relief efforts earlier for Hurricane Harvey.
Korie Cares For The Family Brand
The very reason that attracted Korie and Willie towards each other was their love for entrepreneurship. Much like her dear hubby, Korie cashed on her TV fame towards building a brand of her own. After Duck Dynasty happened, she released her latest book, Strong and Kind: Raising Kids of Character. Given that she’s a noted New York Times bestselling author, she made the most out of this book.
Besides, she also partnered with Glory Haus, a lifestyle brand, to help in releasing a diverse collection of accessories, jewelry, and housewares called ‘Strong + Kind.’ However, she doesn’t share the same view with Willie when it comes to politics. In one of the interviews with CNN, she openly said that her husband’s overt enthusiasm for politics made her quite ‘baffled.’
Even when spinoffs to Duck Dynasty look likely soon, that will not stop us from getting their news. At least, we will never get tired of the clan and their exciting lives. Are you a fan of the Duck Dynasty too? Do share your favorite memories in the comments section.