A&E has reinstated Duck Dynasty star Phil Robertson after a media firestorm erupted following the reality star's statements to GQ on homosexuality and African-Americans.
In a statement, A&E said it had responded quickly by putting Robertson on a hiatus, but ultimately concluded that his comments, while not in line with the network's own values, should not preclude him from appearing on the show.
But Duck Dynasty is not a show about one man's views. It resonates with a large audience because it is a show about family… a family that America has come to love. As you might have seen in many episodes, they come together to reflect and pray for unity, tolerance and forgiveness. These are three values that we at A&E Networks also feel strongly about.
So after discussions with the Robertson family, as well as consulting with numerous advocacy groups, A&E has decided to resume filming Duck Dynasty later this spring with the entire Robertson family.
In the full statement to The Hollywood Reporter, A&E also said it plans to launch a series of public service ads across the network to promote tolerance.
Duck Dynasty is A&E's top-rated show. Its season four premiere drew 11.8 million views — more people than watched the Breaking Bad finale.
Initial critiques of Robertson's comments, in which he grouped homosexuality with "bestiality" and indicated that African-Americans were "happy" in pre-Civil-Rights-era Louisiana, were swiftly followed by a torrent of support for him that claimed he was being unfairly chastised for espousing his religious beliefs.
A change.org petition to reinstate Robertson currently counts more than 118,000 signatures. An Alabama state senator has said he will introduce a resolution honoring Robertson for his stance on gays.
Robertson also refused to retract his statements, but did clarify that he meant no ill will against anyone. The family released a statement after he was suspended that read in part:
"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."
The show itself has been on a contractual hiatus and returns to shooting in January, meaning Robertson will not have missed any filming.
A&E did not immediately return a request for comment.
Image: A&E Networks/Zach Dilgard