14 DAY TRIAL // Since “Duck Dynasty” has proven to be the most watched cable reality series in America, the decision to sign on the cooky family of duck hunters for at least another season is only natural. Even with all the controversy surrounding Phil Robertson and his extreme religious views, A&E can't afford to lose this cash cow.
Shreveport Times reports that the Robertsons have already signed another contract with the network, which guarantees two more seasons of the show at least, because there's nothing to stop them from signing a new contract in 2016 (this is looking very probable at the moment, since the show is so popular).
The announcement comes from Alan Robertson, Phil's eldest son, who is a former preacher. He revealed that “We know we’re locked in for at least another full year — through 2015. Beyond that, we really don’t know.”
“We have recommitted this year — both our family and the network production crew — to putting out some really good stories from our family that we can all enjoy. I think this next year’s going to be really, really good,” Alan explains.
That being said, the fact that the show has dropped in ratings over the last season can't be denied. Official figures show that from a peak of 12 million viewers from the episode “Till Duck Do Us Part,” the show now averages 4.3 million viewers per episode in season number 6. That is still enough to make it the most-watched reality series.
The sixth season has recently completed airing and now fans are gearing up with the next one. A&E is keeping a tight lid on the action, although it often teases viewers with upcoming material. It's all very fragmented and impossible to make out, and it's broadcast in such a way that it only manages to spur interest rather than explain what will happen.
Talking about the upcoming premiere, Alan jokes that “I got tickled cause it was just like when Phil was in Hawaii last year. He gets trapped. He says ‘it’s like Yuppieville on steroids.’ That’s his deal.”
Alan, who's also nicknamed The Beardless Brother for obvious reasons, also took the time to boast that he's getting more air time in this season. “One of the best additions is they’re starting to put me on the air more. For a while I joked that they only brought me on when they wanted the big ratings. To this day the highest rated show is the wedding, so I want to thank all of America for making my debut so meaningful.”