Duck Dynasty Family: We Cannot Imagine the Show Going Forward Without Phil

Duck Dynasty's Robertson family is standing behind their patriarch Phil, who recently came under fire for anti-gay comments he made in GQ magazine.

Earlier this week, A&E placed Robertson on indefinite hiatus after he likened LGBT people to sinners and people who practice bestiality. His family has now released a statement saying they can't imagine continuing the reality series without him.

Duck Dynasty's Phil Robertson spews anti-gay comments in GQ profile

"The family has spent much time in prayer since learning of A&E's decision," the statement on their website reads. "We want you to know that first and foremost we are a family rooted in our faith in God and our belief that the Bible is His word. While some of Phil's unfiltered comments to the reporter were coarse, his beliefs are grounded in the teachings of the Bible. 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. We are disappointed that Phil has been placed on hiatus for expressing his faith, which is his constitutionally protected right. We have had a successful working relationship with A&E but, as a family, we cannot imagine the show going forward without our patriarch at the helm. We are in discussions with A&E to see what that means for the future of Duck Dynasty. Again, thank you for your continued support of our family."

Fans of the show have created a petition to bring Phil back which currently has more than 80,000 signatures.

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