‘Duck Dynasty’ Star Faces Backlash Over ‘Backhanded’ Pregnancy Announcement for 18-Year-Old Daughter

Published: Jul 22 2025

Jessica Robertson, a former cast member of "Duck Dynasty," is set to embrace grandmotherhood once again, albeit facing some disapproval from fans over how she publicized her daughter's pregnancy. On Instagram, accompanied by a snap of her 18-year-old daughter Priscilla cradling her burgeoning belly, Jessica penned, "Jep and I are thrilled to welcome another bundle of joy in October. Priscilla will soon bring our granddaughter into this world, and we feel incredibly fortunate to add another little one to our family. While this wasn't exactly the path we envisioned for Priscilla, God takes our humble plans and transforms them into his greatest blessings!"

‘Duck Dynasty’ Star Faces Backlash Over ‘Backhanded’ Pregnancy Announcement for 18-Year-Old Daughter 1

She further expressed, "We are immensely proud that Priscilla and Dillon have chosen life for their baby, and we will all be enriched by the arrival of this delightful little girl! We invoke blessings upon Priscilla's pregnancy and beseech God for a safe delivery for both mom and baby. We extol God for his impeccable gifts! Please keep us in your prayers! Three babies under one roof!"

The reality TV star's seemingly ambiguous phrasing quickly drew flak in the comments section. One follower lamented, "How disappointing it must be for Priscilla to read her own mother's words hinting, 'this wasn't the plan we had for her…'" Another added, "Such a peculiar way to announce a pregnancy. It feels quite backhanded."

Some fans also noted that Jessica and Jep had earlier shared the news of their other married daughter Merritt's pregnancy, who is 20, before Priscilla's. "Sad that her sister's pregnancy was announced first, even though Priscilla was clearly pregnant first," a commenter observed. "I hope she knows she's just as special as her sister."

However, not all comments were critical. A supportive fan congratulated the family, stating, "I don't detect any shaming in your post. It's said with respect and love, as any mother would speak about her daughter." Another defended Jessica, asserting that she was "merely stating facts and celebrating the joy" of the impending arrival.

Amid the mixed reactions, other members of the Robertson clan ignored the negativity and shared their own well-wishes. Korie Robertson, 51, wife of Willie, 53, called Priscilla "gorgeous" and expressed her excitement for another "sweet baby girl" in the family. Korie and Willie's three daughters also voiced their love and happiness. Rebecca wrote, "Love y'all, and she's going to be an amazing mom!" Bella exclaimed, "I can't wait to meet this precious baby girl!" Sadie added, "Beautiful mama." Mary Kate Robertson, married to Korie and Willie's son John Luke, echoed, "Very excited to meet this baby!"

Jessica and Jep, who tied the knot in 2001, share Priscilla and Merritt, along with their other children: Lily, 22, River, 16, and Gus, 9. The couple gained fame through the A&E show "Duck Dynasty," which aired from 2012 to 2017.

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