Willie Robertson Reflects on His Preppy Past
Willie Robertson, known for his iconic beard and love for camouflage, was quite different in his 20s. Back then, as his wife Corey Robertson reveals, he adhered to a remarkably clean-cut style.
“I always tell people, Willie’s 20s were rebellious,” Corey shared with a chuckle. “He was well-groomed, always showered, and opted for polo shirts and Girbaud jeans instead of camo gear.” It’s quite a shift from the outdoorsman persona he embodies today, a change that, according to Willie, was a natural progression away from his family’s hunting lifestyle.
“At that stage in my life, I honestly never imagined I would work in my family’s business,” Willie admitted. Duck Commander, which was still growing under his father Phil Robertson’s vision, was not where he thought his journey would lead.
Yet, as he approached his 30s, things began to shift.
“I started becoming a father,” Willie reflected. “My beard grew in, I donned camouflage clothing, and eventually, I made my way back to the family business.”
This return didn’t just signify a homecoming, but it also marked the start of a journey toward leadership. Willie played a crucial role in evolving Duck Commander into a brand recognized nationwide, eventually leading to the reality TV sensation known as “Duck Dynasty.”
“Life has a funny way of changing paths,” Willie remarked, looking back at those unpredictable years.
Now, with the family back on air for Season 2 of “Duck Dynasty: The Revival,” Willie finds himself stepping back as the younger generation steps into the limelight, seeking their own paths in the business.
“We’ve expanded quite a bit,” he noted. “What began with just ducks has transformed into diverse ventures at our location.”
With growth comes a shift in perspective, too. “I want my kids to pursue what they love, whether it’s with Duck Commander or something entirely different,” Willie explained.
The next generation is starting to shape their own identities, with some family members experiencing reality TV for the first time. Collier mentioned that her son-in-law, Christian Huff, was particularly excited about participating.
“I think he really loved everything about filming,” she said. “It’s our family motto: go all out, have fun, and don’t take yourself too seriously.”
Willie joked about Christian, suggesting he may have been prepared for his role long before the cameras returned. “He probably watched ‘Duck Dynasty’ and thought, ‘I can totally do this—just roll the camera and let it fly,’” he laughed.
As “Duck Dynasty: The Revival” continues through its second season, the Robertson family’s story is far from over. New episodes air Saturdays at 10 PM ET/PT on A&E.
