In a deeply emotional return to TV, Duck Dynasty: The Revival kicked off its premiere with a moving tribute to the late Phil Robertson, just one week after his passing.
Phil’s sons, Al and Jase, had revealed in December that their father was battling both Alzheimer’s disease and a serious blood disorder. They kept fans informed over the months, sharing candid updates on Phil’s condition. Then, during a May 19 episode of their podcast Unashamed, the brothers spoke with honesty and heart, saying they felt their dad was “preparing for the journey to the other side.”
Phil Robertson passed away on Sunday, May 25, at the age of 79. His death resonated deeply within his family and community, sparking an outpouring of tributes. Among the most powerful was from his brother, Uncle Si.
Shortly after Phil’s death, Si appeared on the Duck Call Room podcast and shared a stirring message:
“My brother has left this earth. The fleshly tent he was in, it wasn’t in good shape. His back was broke. He didn’t have a quality of life. And I am thankful the Almighty called him home. He’s happy because he’s with the Creator right now. These are not tears of sadness. These are tears of joy. These are tears of victory.”
Phil was laid to rest in a private family ceremony on May 29. Just days later, Duck Dynasty: The Revival premiered on A&E. While the season had been filmed prior to Phil’s death and doesn’t directly address it, the premiere still carved out a gentle and powerful moment in his memory.
In one of the final scenes, Willie Robertson is seen reading from his laptop in a living room filled with Christmas cheer.
“So, ladies and gentlemen, start your engines,” he says with a grin. “Only one will earn the bandana, so let the games begin. What do you think, Phil?”
The camera pans to Phil, who quietly offers a thumbs-up in response. Willie bursts into laughter, saying, “Ah, that was awesome!” The screen then fades to black, revealing a photo of Phil alongside the words:
“In Memoriam, Phil Robertson, 1946–2025.”
Where to Watch Duck Dynasty: The Revival
New episodes of Duck Dynasty: The Revival air every Sunday night on A&E. You can catch the show live on the A&E channel or stream it via the A&E app using your TV provider login.
Prefer streaming platforms? You’re covered. The show is also available on Hulu (with a live TV subscription) and Pluto TV. Want to own it? Individual episodes can be purchased for $2.99 each on Amazon Prime Video, or grab the full season for $19.99.
The revival focuses primarily on Willie and Korie Robertson, along with their grown children and young grandchildren. Fans can also look forward to special appearances by familiar faces like Miss Kay and Uncle Si.
The good news? Season 2 has already been greenlit—so this new chapter of Duck Dynasty is just getting started. Don’t miss it.