'Duck Dynasty' star Phil Robertson diagnosed with Alzheimer's, family confirms

(WJW) — Phil Robertson, best known for featuring on the popular reality television show "Duck Dynasty," has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, his family members confirmed.

The Robertson family gave an update on Phil's health during a Friday episode of their podcast "Unashamed with the Robertson Family."

"According to doctors, we're sure he has some sort of blood disease that's causing all kinds of problems," his son, Jase Robertson, said. "It's accelerated and causing problems with his entire body."

Jase went on to say that Phil has early stages of Alzheimer's disease.

"If you put those things together, he's just not doing well," Jase said. "He keeps saying, 'I'm gonna get back to the podcast,' but I'm like, 'Phil, you can barely walk around without crying out in pain. Your memory is not what it once was.' He's like, 'tell me about it.'"

According to a description of the podcast, which recently celebrated 1,000 episodes, "Duck Commander Phil Robertson, his sons Al and Jase, and his nephew Zach take you beyond the four walls of the church to experience God's Word, study the Bible, and hear fun and inspiring stories of faith and family."

"He misses it, he misses the stories we tell," Al Robertson said. "Anybody with Alzheimer's... you have good days and bad days and it's the same with dad. There will be some days where he's a little better, but other days not so much."

The family said they're doing what they can to make him more comfortable.

They went on to thank fans for their love, support and prayers at this time.

The 78-year-old Louisiana native rose to fame on "Duck Dynasty," which ran for 11 seasons on A&E between 2012 and 2017.