Duck Dynasty's Phil Robertson will return to the show following a short suspension period, owing to his off hand comments about homosexuals in a recent interview with GQ. His comments shocked many, yet to others it was a breath of fresh air to hear some rampant bigotry in mainstream media (other than Fox News) and the actions taken against Phil following the publication of his remarks was met with with ardent opposition and calls that his freedom of speech being breached. Following this opposition, Phil Robertson has been reinstated to his role on Duck Dynasty.

Willie Jase Robertson
Phil's Sons Willie & Jase Robertson have stood by their father

Obviously, his reinstatement has only appeased a certain number of people, with those outraged by his comments once again red in the face as he seemingly side-steps retribution for his archaic views. In a statement released to the Hollywood Reporter by A&E, the network tried to explain their reasoning behind Phil's initial suspension and then his sudden return. In the statement, the networks claims that it's "core values are centered around creativity, inclusion and mutual respect," going on to describe the network as having a "strong sense of integrity and deep commitment to these principles."

Apparently, it is through these morals that led to Phil being ousted from Duck Dynasty so hastily, however the comments only "reflect his personal views based on his own beliefs" and do not reflect the views of the network or the rest of the show's crew, the statement continues. The statement goes on: "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."

DD CMA Awards
Some of the DD Clan: John Luke, Sadie, Willie & Korie

The channel go on to state that their programming will now come with a PSA (Public Service Announcement) before each episode, one that indicates and highlights these core values, adding that the Robertson family have agreed to work alongside the network to promote tolerance. Whilst his reinstatement has appealed to certain groups, mostly Christian organisations such as the online petition group IStandWithPhil.com, his reinstatement has understandably angered a great many people.

Next page: Organisations speak in support, and opposition, to Phil Robertson's reinstatement