The Duck Commander warehouse and “Duck Dynasty” show is important to Louisiana tourism, the Louisiana lieutenant governor said, adding that he could help connect the Robertson family with new TV producers if they cannot reach an agreement with the A&E network.
The network suspended family patriarch Phil Robertson last week for for a controversial GQ magazine interview.
“Regardless of one’s views on Phil Robertson’s statements, Duck Dynasty has been an important representation of the state of Louisiana, inspiring prospective visitors and investors since its debut,” Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne said in a statement Saturday, reported The Associated Press.
The show is produced around the Robertson family’s home in Ouachita Parish, La.
Dardenne, who runs the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, said the the show’s audience of millions want to visit Louisiana.
“If the Robertson family cannot come to an agreement with A&E and wants to continue the show, Louisiana already has the infrastructure in place to maintain their record-breaking program,” he wrote in the statement to AP.
Dardenne told AP that he would use his political influence in the state’s industry to help the Robertsons.
Gov. Bobby Jindal said Thursday that people are entitled to say their opinions.
At least 1.7 million people have “liked” an impromptu Facebook page called “Boycott A&E Until Phil Robertson Is Put Back On Duck Dynasty.”
“Duck Dynasty” is on hiatus until mid-January, said a network spokesman.
