Phil Robertson, the patriarch of the hit reality television series 'Duck Dynasty,' which made the Robertson family household names, has been revealed to have included his secret daughter in his substantial will. The controversial star, known for his strong conservative views and outspoken personality, built a successful brand around the family's duck-hunting business and lifestyle before stepping back from the spotlight.
Phil Robertson's Will Includes Secret Daughter
According to RadarOnline.com, Phil Robertson included his newfound daughter, Phyllis Robertson Thomas, in his $15 million will before he passed away at the age of 79 after battling Alzheimer's disease and a blood disorder. The discovery of Phyllis occurred years before his passing when she took a DNA test in 2019 and unexpectedly linked herself to the famed reality television stars.
Discovery of Secret Daughter in 2019
Although the Robertson family was initially hesitant to believe that Phyllis was authentic, Phil eventually agreed to take a DNA test of his own, and it confirmed that he was a 99.9 percent match. The report stated that Phil was in an extramarital affair with Phyllis' mother 'at the end of his days as a hard-partying, drug-abusing womanizer and before he became a Christian and turned away from that wicked behavior.' Despite the surprising way that she came into the family, Phil welcomed her into the Robertson brood. 'Phil never stops crowing about how alike he and Phyllis are. Even her name is a variation of his,' the report revealed.
Family's Mixed Reactions to Phyllis
Not only did Phyllis get to meet her father, but she also met her four half-brothers—Alan, 61, Jase, 56, Willie, 54, and Jules, 47. However, the boys and Phil's wife Kay took a bit more convincing to accept her, according to reports. 'They're acting moody and griping behind their dad's back that she's a gold digger,' a source claimed back in 2021. 'Kay's had to bite her tongue ever since Phyllis came on the scene, but it bugs her having to share their money with another woman's kid!'
Phil Robertson's Comments on His Affair and Daughter
In a 2020 interview with USA Today, Phil admitted that his affair wasn't something he was 'proud of,' but claimed it was 'amazing to see what beauty God can bring out of our messes.' 'I was in a dark place, but God brought me to the light,' he told the outlet. 'He makes wonderful things out of the ashes. My daughter is a living testimony of that.' After meeting Phyllis for the first time, he revealed that he gave 'her a hug,' which he wasn't 'in the habit of doing,' and told her, 'welcome aboard.'
Phil Robertson's Health Decline
As his health deteriorated, Phil's condition took a downward turn as he battled Alzheimer's disease and a blood disorder that appears to cause 'mini-strokes.' According to reports, his Alzheimer's progressed and robbed him of his mental capacity, and he had back problems that required constant care from his family before he passed away.
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