Duck Dynasty (2012-2017) (2012)

The Gospel Coalition: Joe Carter described Duck Dynasty as “the highest rated show on TV to consistently portray a family that is unapologetic about their Christian faith and their affection for one another,” noting the show was making it harder for television executives to ignore the demand for faith-forward family programming.

The Christian Century: Writing in its October 2013 issue, Jason Byassee offered a measured but warm assessment, noting that Duck Dynasty is unusual among cable reality shows for featuring a prayer in every episode. He observed the tension between the family’s actual faith life and what A&E chose to broadcast.

Plugged In: Reviewer Paul Asay noted that unlike competing entries in the “redneck television” genre, Duck Dynasty makes viewers want to sit at the table with the Robertsons—”and laugh with them, not at them.” He observed that the Robertsons never shy away from their Christian faith and that God’s name “is more often used in the context of prayer than as a throwaway swear”—a distinction that makes the show genuinely unusual on TV.

IMDb: The series holds a 6.2 user rating.

Rotten Tomatoes: On Rotten Tomatoes, the series holds 70% for its popcornmeter.

Common Sense Media: The site notes very positive messages about family and hard work throughout the series, alongside references to religion and routine hunting and firearms content.

Hollywood Reporter: At the show’s peak in 2013, Duck Dynasty averaged 13.4 million viewers, making it the most significant ratings performer in A&E history.