Duck Commander, Phil Robertson, has never been one to skirt issues. He is a straight shooter and tells you exactly what he thinks. I love that about people. I wish I was more like that myself. You always know exactly where you stand with folks like that. Phil recently did an interview with Drew Magary for GQ Magazine called 'What the Duck?' and once again there was no mincing of words when it came to his opinion of topics like being a 'Bible-thumper', his past, insurance, homosexuality and more.

Robertson admits to having a past that wasn't so clean. It involved womanizing, drinking, cussing and even throwing his family out of the house. He says he left all that behind and became re-born and leads a much different life these days. Quoting scripture, valuing his family, hunting and loving Christ is his life path these days. As I mentioned though he doesn't hold back when today's mainstream ideas don't jive with his Christian beliefs.

When asked by GQ writer Drew Magary "What, in your mind is sinful?" Robertson responds with:

“Start with homosexual behavior and just morph out from there. Bestiality, sleeping around with this woman and that woman and that woman and those men,” he says. Then he paraphrases Corinthians: “Don’t be deceived. Neither the adulterers, the idolaters, the male prostitutes, the homosexual offenders, the greedy, the drunkards, the slanderers, the swindlers—they won’t inherit the kingdom of God. Don’t deceive yourself. It’s not right.”

Robertson goes on to explain.

“It seems like, to me, a vagina—as a man—would be more desirable than a man’s anus. That’s just me. I’m just thinking: There’s more there! She’s got more to offer. I mean, come on, dudes! You know what I’m saying? But hey, sin: It’s not logical, my man. It’s just not logical.”

You can't fault someone for having their own opinion, whether you understand it or agree with it. Phil, along with the other family/cast have written books that have all ended up on the New York Times best sellers list. They also make appearances (they are coming to Abilene, April 2014) and do speaking engagements and hosting Bible studies all over the states. Jep Robertson (youngest brother/son) says “We’re not quite as outspoken as my dad, but I’m definitely in line,” he says. “If somebody asks, I tell ’em what the Bible says".

The following statement was released by A&E representatives:

“I myself am a product of the 60s; I centered my life around sex, drugs and rock and roll until I hit rock bottom and accepted Jesus as my Savior. My mission today is to go forth and tell people about why I follow Christ and also what the bible teaches, and part of that teaching is that women and men are meant to be together. However, I would never treat anyone with disrespect just because they are different from me. We are all created by the Almighty and like Him, I love all of humanity. We would all be better off if we loved God and loved each other.”

[Huffington Post]

The latest from A&E Networks is that Phil will be placed on indefinite hiatus as reflected in this statement.

“We are extremely disappointed to have read Phil Robertson’s comments in GQ, which are based on his own personal beliefs and are not reflected in the series Duck Dynasty. His personal views in no way reflect those of A+E Networks, who have always been strong supporters and champions of the LGBT community.”

[Variety]

The Robertson family is standing strong beside their patriarch and have presented an official statement on their Duck Commander site. This is the official statement:

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.

[Duck Commander]

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