10:03 AM EST 12/20/2013
The family of Phil Robertson has spoken out since he was suspended from their A&E reality TV show, Duck Dynasty.
The family said in a statement on Thursday that they stood by their patriarch. They did not want to continue the show without him.
"We are disappointed that Phil has been placed on hiatus for expressing his faith," the statement said. "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."
Robertson was suspended from A&E's Duck Dynasty over anti gay comments he made in GQ.
The 67-year-old gave a recent interview to the publication. The reality TV star, who is a devout Christian, expressed his views on homosexuality.
"Start with homosexual behavior and just morph out from there -- bestiality, sleeping around with this woman and that woman and that woman and those men," he said.
He continued with his disapproval.
"Don't be deceived. Neither the adulterers, the idolaters, the male prostitutes, the homosexual offenders, the greedy, the drunkards, the slanderers, the swindlers - they won't inherit the kingdom of God . . .Don't deceive yourself. It's not right," he said.
Robertson issued a statement as his comments gained traction and backlash.
"My mission today is to go forth and tell people about why I follow Christ and alsowhat the bible teaches, and part of that teaching is that women and men are meant to be together," he said. "However, I would never treat anyone with disrespect just because they are different from me. We are all created by the Almighty and like Him, I love all of humanity. We would all be better off if we loved God and loved each other."
Nonetheless, A&E decided to suspend him from the popular television show for the time being.
© 2018 Celebeat.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.