The popular show Duck Dynasty could be done like dinner on the Arts and Entertainment Network.
Following comments made by the family patriarch that outraged network executives and led to the removal of from the show, the family has issued a statement.
Phil Robertson made comments on homosexuality that were not in keeping with A&E’s standards and guidelines. The network suspended Robertson from the show.
“We want to thank all of you for your prayers and support. The family has spent much time in prayer since learning of A&E’s decision. We want you to know that first and foremost we are a family rooted in our faith in God and our belief that the Bible is His word. While some of Phil’s unfiltered comments to the reporter were coarse, his beliefs are grounded in the teachings of the Bible. Phil is a Godly man who follows what the Bible says are the greatest commandments: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart” and “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Phil would never incite or encourage hate. We are disappointed that Phil has been placed on hiatus for expressing his faith, which is his constitutionally protected right. We have had a successful working relationship with A&E but, as a family, we cannot imagine the show going forward without our patriarch at the helm. We are in discussions with A&E to see what that means for the future of Duck Dynasty. Again, thank you for your continued support of our family.”
Robertson, according to the Duck Commander Website, is “living the dream”.
“In the mid-’70s, Phil turned his life over to the Lord and made dramatic changes. Phil Robertson is not only known as The Duck Commander, but also he has built a reputation across the country for his faith and belief in the Almighty. Every year, he is invited to speak to hundreds of churches and organizations, telling them what the Lord has done for him and what the Lord can do for them.
“Duck Commander is still a family business, with all 4 sons and their wives either presently working or previously having worked for the company at one time or another. The Robertsons no longer build, package, and ship calls from their home on the Ouachita River. The production has moved into the warehouse located in West Monroe, which is featured on A&E’s hit TV series, “Duck Dynasty.” Phil still enjoys running fishing nets and now the fish he catches feeds all of the kids and grandkids. Yes, it’s a rough life, but as Phil says, ‘Somebody’s gotta do it’.”
