Duck Dynasty: Family Stands Behind Phil, PETA Politicks, Gingrich Gripes & Much More!
Dec. 20 2013, Published 10:07 a.m. ET
The scandal surrounding Duck Dynasty and its' star Phil Robertson continued at a fever pitch Friday, and we've got plenty of new details for you right here on Breaking Celebrity News.
As we previously reported, the Louisiana native caused a major stir in telling GQ how he doesn't understand how two men could enjoy making love to one another.
“It seems like, to me, a [expletive] -- as a man -- would be more desirable than a man’s anus," he said in the latest issue of the magazine. "That’s just me. I’m just thinking: There’s more there! She’s got more to offer. I mean, come on, dudes! You know what I’m saying?"
With Robertson subsequently suspended by A&E, the hotbed issue has taken on a life of its' own, so without further adieu, check out these new developments.
1. We Are Family
The Robertson clan released a statement Thursday via their website, saying in no uncertain terms they come as a package, and "cannot imagine the show going forward" without Phil. This comes as an interesting time for the reality TV family, who are arguably at the peak of their fame with record-breaking ratings for A&E and a merchandising blitz just in time for the holidays.
The full statement read: "We want to thank all of you for your prayers and support. The family has spent much time in prayer since learning of A&E’s decision. 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."
2. When It Rains, It Pours …
PETA, no fans of the show in the first place due to its' nature -- they're rich off selling hunting equipment -- has jumped headfirst into the controversy, calling for the A&E hit's cancellation, and saying the family is hypocritical in touting its' religious beliefs when they're sinning in "hating people and animals." The organization said in a statement it “wants A&E to do more than suspend one of the characters on ’Duck Dynasty’ for damning gays. We call on the cha