When did Phil Robertson make his first duck call? Career highlights explored as 'Duck Dynasty' star dies at 79

Phil Robertson died on May 25, 2025, at the age of 79. The tragic news was announced on his social media account, which read:

"We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord."

His family also wrote on social media:

"Thank you for the love and prayers of so many whose lives have been impacted by his life saved by grace, his bold faith, and by his desire to tell everyone who would listen the Good News of Jesus."

The family statement did not disclose the cause of his passing. However, in a December episode of the family’s podcast, Jase Robertson mentioned that his father had been in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

Phil Robertson was an American professional hunter, business owner, and reality TV star.

After being frustrated by the poor sounds, Phil made his first duck call in 1972. A duck call is a tool used by duck hunters that mimics the exact duck sound, resulting in tricking ducks to come closer.

When did Phil Robertson's Duck Dynasty air?

Duck Dynasty aired in 2012 and ran till 2017, spanning eleven seasons. The reality show followed the Robertson family in West Monroe, Louisiana, where they ran Duck Commander, a company that makes duck calls and hunting gear. The show featured Phil, his wife Kay, and their sons, and their families. In 1973, he got a patent for his duck call, and that same year, the Duck Commander Company was officially started.

Phil Robertson was also a star athlete in high school, which led to a football scholarship at Louisiana Tech. He pursued master's in education and spent several years in the field of teaching.

Robertson also started a podcast named Unashamed Podcast with his sons after Duck Dynasty ended. Two years ago, a biographical film based on him titled The Blind was also released in theaters in September 2023. The film focuses on his early life. He also shared the news on his social media, saying:

"I started the year praying we’d bring just one person to Jesus with The Blind. Well, our little movie helped thousands run up on Jesus, and that’s what I’m most thankful for this year. That and getting to cook duck and dressing for my family."

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Phil Robertson has also authored many books, including Happy, Happy, Happy.

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