Phil Robertson, the well-known patriarch of the Duck Dynasty family, is facing a tough battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. His son, Jase Robertson, opened up about his father’s health challenges during the December 6, 2024, episode of their podcast, Unashamed with the Robertson Family. Adding to the complexity of his condition, Phil is also grappling with an undiagnosed blood disease that has been worsening over the past few years.
“Dad’s not doing well,” Jase candidly shared. “The doctors are confident he has some sort of blood disease that’s affecting his whole body, and it’s been progressing rapidly. Coupled with his early-stage Alzheimer’s, it’s really taking a toll on him. He’s struggling on every front.”
Phil’s condition has made daily life incredibly challenging. According to Jase, his father dreams of returning to the spotlight, but persistent pain and difficulty walking have made that impossible. On top of that, his memory issues are becoming more pronounced. While Phil has good days, the bad ones are tough, and the family is focused on working with doctors to manage his pain and slow the progression of his symptoms. “There’s no cure for what he has,” Jase explained. “We’re just doing our best to make him as comfortable as possible.”
The news of Phil’s health struggles will likely resonate deeply with fans of Duck Dynasty. Over the years, the Robertson family has weathered their fair share of hardships, from addiction to personal tragedies, and they’ve consistently leaned on their faith and resilience to push through. They’ve also never been far from controversy, with Phil’s outspoken and divisive comments making him a polarizing figure in Hollywood. His staunch support for conservative ideals, including his alliance with Donald Trump, has further alienated him from more liberal circles in the entertainment industry.
Despite these challenges, the family remains proud of Phil’s legacy. Al Robertson, Phil’s eldest son, drew a poignant comparison between his father’s situation and that of former President Ronald Reagan, who faced Alzheimer’s in his later years. “Reagan wrote a heartfelt letter when he realized he couldn’t continue as before,” Al reflected. “Dad didn’t write a letter, but his legacy lives on through us. His message, his love for the gospel, and his impact on others—it transcends generations.”
The Robertson family is determined to honor Phil’s contributions, even as they navigate this difficult chapter. His life’s work, they believe, will continue to inspire others, serving as a testament to his enduring spirit.