An A&E executive told The New York Times on Thursday it was Robertson's overt comparison between bestiality and homosexuality that prompted the suspension.
The Robertson family issued a statement Thursday on the suspension, thanking fans for their support and suggesting the show's future is in doubt without the patriarch.
"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," the statement said.