Reality TV is a whole other dimension of “the hillbilly” on television– though the representation of the “real life” of a “hillbilly” in America has evolved over time, Duck Dynasty (airing in 2012) contains themes in which embody the “hillbilly” representation contemporarily. Its stark contrast with shows which were variety on CBS (“The Beverly Hillbillies” and “Dukes of Hazzard”) indicate a shift in the general portrayal. For example, rather than Jed Clampett of “The Beverly Hillbillies” as seen as a more submissive figure as opposed to his two female counterparts (his daughter and mother) in the show, Duck Dynasty is a show of patriarchy. In addition to a complete difference in gender dynamic, the theme of religion is central to the reality show. Though these two themes, among others, are in contrast, the general activity which is represented as “the norm” for the characters in the show remain unchanged– these activities include animals, guns, and killing things (which also comes back to the “closeness to land” portrayal of the “hillbilly,” which is also seen with the Clampetts. Below is a clip of just the introduction to the show. This clip embodies a lot of the representation of the reality of the “hillbilly” and how it may have changed over time. Duck Dynasty is featured on A&E:
The funny contrast in this reality TV series and other “hillbilly” shows is the obvious acknowledgement of their specific ways of life. “Pretty scary, huh?” Jase Robertson says, as his family and their wives are shown posing and all shooting guns simultaneously. He actually acknowledges the potential reactions of the audience and viewers. Furthermore, Phil’s introduction for himself, “my happiness is killing things,” along with the representation of women (their wives and mother within their family) highlights the certain ways in which the Robertsons reflect this type of “hillbilly” in TV which will be discussed throughout this section. As the introduction to the show goes on, running through various members of the family and tidbits about who they are– it concludes with “but we still manage to stay true to ourselves…” while the camera pans over to the entire family praying. The element of religion is an additional layer to the “hillbilly” on TV which is introduced through this specific show, and it ads to the already-existing “closeness of family” portrayal.
“Duck Dynasty” lays out a “hillbilly” in TV which is represented by various themes:
Rural and “hillbilly” antics
Similar to “The Beverly Hillbillies,” the “hillbilly” on TV is characterized by ridiculous antics and activities which the characters on the show embrace as normal. What is interesting, though, and worth noting, is the difference in the humor of it all—rather than the jokes coming from the apparent stick-out differences of the Clampetts while they live in Beverly Hills (with all of their accidental wealth), they come from these Robertson men, fully-bearded, dressed in camouflage being fully in their element, using their wealth in whatever way they want to (a “hillbilly” way—which is part of the humor).
After S1 E1 opens up with Phil telling the camera, unapologetically, “my happiness is killing things,” the first scene begins with Willie sitting at his desk as he finds out his company has no inventory for a specific duck call—as he tries to locate his employees and company (*who are also his family*) the whereabouts of all of the men are all too perfect:
His brother is out “fishing for catfish with Red,” and Phil, his father, and Sal, are out clearing beaver dams.
Gender dynamics
As referenced in the timeline, it’s important to note other reality TV shows such as “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo,” which, like “Duck Dynasty,” crafts a brand in which the characters totally embrace the country stereotype.
Laura Bennett, contributor to “The New Republic,” wrote a review on “Duck Dynasty”—titling it as a review of a “hyper-masculine redneck reality show.” The show, according to Bennett, “makes being a man seem as straightforward as a punch to the face.” All of the Robertson men are happily married, to attractive and seemingly-sane women—who, as seen in the above clip during the introduction—come out to meet their attractive wives dressed in gowns.
In the first few scenes in the movie, viewers see a wife approach her husband, the CEO, about a problem with the stock of “The Triple Threat” duck call—which implies, perhaps, the wives do administrative and supportive work, while the men run the place.
Gabe Bullard, in The Bitter Southerner, consistently refers to “the rugged paternalism” of “Duck Dynasty.”
Religion
Christian values
“And when the men of “Duck Dynasty” use Christian values as an excuse for homophobia, it doesn’t matter whether they’re pandering to potential viewers or actively expressing their politics. The characters are the men.” — Gabe Bullard, The Bitter Southerner