In hopes to save the show, the network said, "We are extremely disappointed to have read Phil Robertson's comments in GQ, which are based on his own personal beliefs and are not reflected in the series 'Duck Dynasty'". The network also stated,"His personal views in no way reflect those of A&E Networks, who have always been strong supporters and champions of the LGBT community. The network has placed Phil under hiatus from filming indefinitely." I believe A&E made the right decision but they can not suspend him forever. They will need him back.
Robertson has explained that his life use to be based on sex, drugs, and Rock-and-Role until he hit rock bottom. At that time he turned his life around and accepted Jesus as his savior. He claim his mission is now to spread the word of God, tell about his own personal story and preach the Bible. One of those teachings is that marriage is between a man and woman. Phil says that his family has lost all privacy since the show but is glad because he had a stage to spread his religious beliefs.
Many people believe Phil is right for saying what he believes in. Many also say that this is a violation of his first amendment right to the freedom of speech. Phil has backed up his statements with text from the bible. Despite these facts, others believe that there should be more punishments for his homophobic speech. Some say he knows nothing about homosexuals and their way of life.
People need to realize that he and his family have given up privacy to operate the show we all love. I believe he should know that he affects many people because he is very famous but he still has rights as a human. Everyone has their own beliefs, even T.V. stars. If someone is religious, than they have a right to it. People also have freedom to their speech. Phil is a firm believer in Christ and has a right to be due to the 1st amendment. I believe is just doing what he believes in. Finally, he is just a man on a TV, no one forces you to watch the show. If you don't like his actions, don't follow him.
ReplyDeleteAs we discussed in class, First Amendment absolutely protects his right to express these views, but that doesn't mean he gets to keep his job (as you imply here). I hope I can make clear that I disagree in all way shape and form with Mr. Duck's comments, although it also seems to me that A&E is being a tad hypocritical too--run with the Duck folks all the way to the bank, until they embarrass you with their ideas and expression then cut 'em lose. Must confess, the whole Duck Dynasty thing was a mystery to me before this, although one year, a student did convince me to start watching Swamp People. Can't figure out why anyone would watch this show expecting the characters' political and social views to conform to his/her own. Is the allure of the show an opportunity to throw snark and ridicule at "backwoods or bayou" people?