Boedeker: 'Duck Dynasty': Free speech isn't the issue

CAPTIONS

The Robertson family c (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times /February 27, 2013)

In making controversial comments about gays and blacks, "Duck Dynasty" patriarch Phil Robertson reduced his appeal and possibly his audience.

Some may complain that Robertson's suspension by A&E is an issue of free speech, but it's actually one of marketing and contracts.

"Duck Dynasty" has always seemed a funny and well-produced reality series about a loving family.

But Robertson's comments to GQ magazine cast a shadow over the enterprise. Did he realize he was alienating the show's gay and black fans? Is it wise to tell potential viewers that they'll be denied the Kingdom of Heaven?

It's not good business, to put it mildly. People under contract on television are not supposed to drive away viewers. With the suspension, I presume A&E was trying to impress on Robertson the blunder he'd made. But does the family care?

After his punishment, the Robertson family issued a statement. "While some of Phil's unfiltered comments to the reporter were coarse, his beliefs are grounded in the teachings of the Bible," that statement read.

And what of the future of "Duck Dynasty"?

The statement reads: "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.' "

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Boedeker: 'Duck Dynasty': Free speech isn't the issue