Chris Stone, founder of Faith Driven Consumer, issued a statement (via THR) that praised Robertson's reinstatement, but questioned the explanation issued by A&E surrounding the reinstatement. It read, “Despite our celebration, we remain uncertain of A&E's true intent. Today, in the network’s statement of their core values – centered on ‘creativity, inclusion, and mutual respect’ - Faith Driven Consumers are left wondering whether A&E considers us to be a part of America's rich rainbow of diversity. Do they also now embrace the biblically based values and worldview held by the Robertson family and millions of Faith Driven Consumers?"


Gay rights campaigners GLAAD issued their own statement to THR in relation to his reinstatement, it read: "Phil Robertson should look African American and gay people in the eyes and hear about the hurtful impact of praising Jim Crow laws and comparing gay people to terrorists. If dialogue with Phil is not part of next steps then A+E has chosen profits over African American and gay people – especially its employees and viewers."


Meanwhile, the entire Robertson family have agreed to stand by their family patriarch and have not left his corner since the fallout to his comments began. The network have also reacted limitedly since Phil's initial suspension and have continued to air episodes of Duck Dynasty, including a marathon of episodes on Christmas Day. The premiere of season five on 15 January never looked in threat of being cancelled either, which brings into question A&E's real beliefs, but really only just highlights the popularity of Duck Dynasty, a show that was never going to be in danger of being cancelled any time soon, and the financial gains it brings to A&E.


Duck Dynasty is by far the biggest asset owned by the A&E channel and it one of the most popular reality programmes on television today, not to mention being the second most popular programme on cable television, only behind AMC's The Walking Dead. What's more, the Duck Dynasty name has become a popular brand across America, with DD gear available to buy at Walmart, Sears and various other retailers across the country. With such financial backing and cultural following, did you really ever see the show being in danger of cancelation?