Why Did 'Duck Dynasty' Get Cancelled? Here Are a Few Theories

Megan Stein

From Country Living

  • Duck Dynasty ended in 2017 after 11 seasons.

  • Here are some popular theories as to why the A&E show got cancelled.

Duck Dynasty aired its final episode in spring 2017, but some longtime supporters are still wondering why the A&E reality show ended at all.

When Duck Dynasty started in 2012, it was a smash hit. At one point, it was the most-watched nonfiction series in cable history, thanks to the Robertson family’s wild business and big personalities. So how did it go from a must-watch to getting cancelled?

Here are a few theories about what ended Duck Dynasty for good.

Ratings had dropped significantly.

According to TVLine, the show “dropped more than 40 percent from its previous opener” in 2014. Fox News reported that it was downhill from there, as season 10 premiered to only 1.3 million viewers. Both of those stats don't look great when compared to season 4's whopping 11.8 million debut draw. So even though it experienced some high-highs, they weren't continuing to see much growth.

Controversy riddled the cast.

Photo credit: NBC
Photo credit: NBC

Specifically regarding patriarch Phil Robertson. The now 73-year-old called "homosexual behavior" sinful in an interview with GQ in 2013, and he was briefly suspended from the show over his comments. A&E reinstated him less than 10 days later, though, according to The Hollywood Reporter. He also spoke out about his strong opinions on STDs, ISIS, atheists, and transgender laws, Entertainment Weekly said.

The family had tons of other business opportunities.

Besides founding the Duck Commander company, they also had a line at Walmart. At the time, Uncle Si had landed his own spinoff series, Willie’s daughter Sadie had appeared on Dancing With the Stars, and it sounded like they had a few specials planned with the network, too. Those busy schedules may not have allowed for full-time filming.

Though its fan base was disappointed about Duck Dynasty getting cancelled, it seems the Robertsons have all been fine in the years since. And whenever you need a dose of the Louisiana family, there’s always reruns.

You Might Also Like