Cracker Barrel Pulls About Face on ‘Duck Dynasty’ Merchandise

I'm tired of gay this and gay that being shoved in my face constantly. I don't care if they are gay. I don't want heterosexuals wearing me out either about their preference either. Most of us like peg and hole extracurricular activities though so please keep the non procreation ramblings to a minimum. Hell, I'm going to go to CB this week and have me some roast beef, corn, mashed potatoes and green beans.

Go duck dynasty dude!!!!

Murgatroid

Kangaruex4Ewe
I am glad to see that a company can admit that they think they may have made a mistake and aren't afraid to change it.

If A&E had any guts, they too would admit that they made a mistake.

Of course they realize that now...

MSM's hidden agenda and commitment to being politically correct is FAR more important to them than the viewers.

I agree. I also think if they back down Phil should refuse to return on principle alone. They were aware of his views beforehand and didn't mind making money off of him until they were called out on it. I believe that they were extremely shocked at the backlash their decision caused and are probably wishing they had just let it ride.

I do not foresee them backing down though regardless of profit loss. I think they are "in for a penny, in for a pound" and will take a loss before they admit to a mistake/rash decision.

bigfatfurrytexan
reply to post by Kangaruex4Ewe

 

its really only tiring because the people telling it keep lying. All media outlets keep saying he likened homosexuality to beastiality. No such thing happened.

I don't watch the show, but given the underdog status of the Robertson family (what with media lies against them), i am firmly in their camp. And Ill still punch someone in the nose for making fun of any of my gay loved ones.

I have seen him misquoted so many times it isn't even funny. I think the outrage may have been less if they hadn't went through the trouble of making it appear that is what he actually said, and if people would take the time to read the whole interview. That would be too easy though, and let's face it.... there would have still been people screaming for his job.

I think it is entirely possible to be in "their camp" and not share their opinion, it seems a lot of others don't agree with that.

StoutBroux
OP, the story is not getting old and there is a thrill every time someone conquers a conquest! It is the thrill of freedom, the thrill of escape, the thrill of evading the evil overlords....all the enemies, be they our own government, other governments, other entities.....whatever. There is excitement in overcoming ones enemies.

I did think it was nice to see a "win" of sorts with this. I was glad to see that one group was not allowed to completely shut down anything and everything tied to another group they didn't agree with. I am always glad to see that in situations like this regardless of which side it occurs on.

Metallicus

Basically, don't tell me what to do and I won't tell you.

Short, sweet, and to the point. That pretty much sums up this whole thing IMO.

I really should watch more idiot TV, I have no idea what all the fuss is about, that guy must have said something truly earth shattering to cause such an avalanche of hysteria.

pikestaff
I have no idea what all the fuss is about...

DD is odd. I don't think it came out quite the way A&E expected it to, and they went with it instead of trying to force it (more than once or twice) into the mold they wanted.

Basically, I *think* it was supposed to be a reality show which was going to be a bunch of stupid rednecks with money so we can all laugh at their gauche waste of money and lack of class etc.

It didn't turn out that way. The Robertsons didn't really change the way they lived when the money started rolling in. You don't see three story trailers with velvet Elvises on the walls or whatever A&E thought they'd get. They don't fight. They don't do drugs. They don't even cuss. They're not stupid. They have teeth and wear shoes. They've got a sort of wry sense of humor and a really good interaction with family and friends, some of it is obviously the fakey contrived theme of the episode, but the other guys play into it improv, and it works.

And in a much more true way, it IS the way my family is at home (other than the cussing - we're really good at that, we generally have a small amount of alcohol involved too and they don't drink). They do exactly the sorts of things we do. They act the way we act. They're a bit more sedate than we are, we tend to be a lot rowdier when we're together. But they could be my neighbors. To me, it's a bit like a local version of Seinfeld, there really ISN'T any point to any episode, they take a theme and run with it, and it's all character interaction for the most part, albeit some of them are doing caricatures of themselves.

But hey, part of the package is that these guys are all Church of Christ. It's pretty strict. This is apparently a pretty relaxed church, too, most CofC members I know don't have Christmas decorations in their homes and are pretty straitlaced and stodgy, not much fun to be around. I was pretty surprised to find they were CofC. Anyway, A&E should have known (maybe not, if you're a coaster we probably all look the same to you) that would eventually creep into the mix.

So, A&E took a few shots at molding them back into the stereotype a coaster would have of a redneck, and started getting pushback from the Robertsons, and by then the show was their biggest product, and they didn't have as much say as they'd like any more. That was the end of trying to add in fake fights, drinking and cussing, and they stopped trying to get rid of the show ending. But it rankled them, they hated it, and frankly I think this entire GQ thing was contrived to try to force Phil to change the end of the show and have everyone act more like the stereotypical "Beverly Hillbillies" rednecks they'd really prefer. However, now not only are they likely to lose their only really profitable product, the thing's starting to spill out onto their sponsors.

Like I have been trying to tell people, this whole charade was a well designed marketing scheme to bring renewed sales and ratings.

Most businesses attempt similar strategies but rarely does it pay off so well.
Essentially you have to hone in on your "demographic", and determine what they think/believe and what they are for or against socio-politically.

Then they craft the approach around this information they painstakingly collected, in order to play the heartstrings of the targeted demographic. Why do you think they are collecting info on our habits and beliefs all of the time anyways?

Buying into the product isn't rebellion, that's the guise.
This has little to do with beliefs or speech per se, but instead it is much more about ratings and manipulating consumers for sales $$$.

This point of view has been ignored too long I suspect.

reply to post by muzzleflash


But how far did the planning for this 'marketing scheme' go? Was the interview with GQ part of it, or just an opportunity?

Maybe there is no easy way we can know this, but in this case the majority of the public responding is seeing the GQ interview as genuine, and the rest as part of the scheme. That makes the scheme the actions of A&E.

With Cracker Barrel, it was more the classic 'rock and a hard place', they just recently had to settle an employment discrimination GLAAD attack and didn't need another, and therefore knee-jerked a decision to avoid their wrath again.

So I can't see them being part of the scheme.

Now, if the original interview was contrived...then there is a conspiracy fer ya!

What is duck dynasty , and what does duck dynasty have to do with me?
Is duck dynasty going to have anything to do with my day with my family and work tomorrow?

I am ignorant to this duck dynasty, and I have the funny feeling that being ignorant to this duck dynasty is for my greater good.

You shall deny my ignorance.

I just have a small tingling feeling that this duck dynasty thing is a corporate special interest psy-op.
Like this thing is supposed to be subconsciously programming my mind.

ManOfHart
I just have a small tingling feeling that this duck dynasty thing is a corporate special interest psy-op.
Like this thing is supposed to be subconsciously programming my mind.

I see it the same way...

The way I see it is if something is on TV, it has an agenda behind it.

For that reason alone I have not sat down and watched a TV set for many MANY years.

And yes, it IS for my greater good.

So I had to Google this thing as well just to see what it was all about...

Here, let me save you the trouble:

It looks like Phil Robertson's suspension from "Duck Dynasty" may be just for show. Entertainment Weekly learned that on Jan. 15, A&E will begin airing new episodes of the show that include scenes featuring the "Dynasty" patriarch.

Phil Robertson Will Return In January

In an apparent effort to convince this demographic that homosexual actions are not sinful, GLAAD spokesperson Wilson Cruz said Robertson’s views are not Christian. The strategy here seems to be “divide and conquer”—separate Robertson from his religion and let public opinion do the rest. The theologians at GLAAD will have to do better, because what Robertson said is not inconsistent with a Christianity that sees the Bible as a source of Divine authority and inspiration—and Louisiana gun-toting evangelicals are not the only ones who embrace that Christianity.

On the contrary, Cruz’s statement appears naive when one considers that Pope Francis, Time Magazine’s Person of the Year for 2013, has previously called gay marriage the work of the devil and “a total rejection of God’s law engraved on our hearts.” Judging by Thursday’s precedent, A&E would fire the pope.

Missing in the controversy over A&E’s handling of its golden goose—or duck, rather—is the fact that the real conflict here is not between Robertson and A&E; it is between gay activists and a solid majority of Christians who believe homosexual acts are wrong.

The Genuine Conflict Being Ignored in the Duck Dynasty Debate

“There’s no negotiation to have; we’re doing the show,” said an insider close to the situation. “We’ll figure out a solution. It’s just not going to happen overnight. Everybody will take a break for the holidays and regroup afterward. That’s probably the smartest thing for everyone to do. Time heals a lot of wounds.”

The Robertson family hasn’t sounded as optimistic, with a source close to the Louisiana duck call clan telling E!: “They’re an extremely tight-knit family and they’re not going to let this get in the way. [Phil] is the reason for their success—they’re not going to abandon him. They’re also not about to let anyone threaten their religious beliefs.”

'Duck Dynasty': New episodes will include Phil

>>> I've been to Cracker Barrel many times, its right next to a Cabela's so you can't find two more appropriate companies that go together. But that's image, not reality. I see large numbers of all kinds of people in both establishments. Everybody likes guns it seems, and I mean EVERYBODY. Same goes for pretty good homestyle country food. CB does seem to appeal more to older folks. They're nice places with a different look thats welcome.
I've never watched Duck Dynasty because it seems kind of fake like The Kardashians or Honey Boo Boo. And it got so much hype( media and marketing) that I felt I was being told I HAD to like it and they were forcing a stereotype of hillbillies or bumpkins on me. Same with The Jersey Shore. We have to be stupid and backwards or skanky and trashy, WTF are they trying to run society into the ground?
Its stupid to have companies be in fear of activists and be so hyper reactive to what spokespeople say or do. Consumers will decide whats right or wrong and if it bothers them or not.

Dutchowl
WTF are they trying to run society into the ground?

In the entire history of man, no one has ever been brainwashed and realized, or believed, that he had been brainwashed. www.whale.to...

Allen sums up the real purpose of the mainstream news, stating, "These are the Establishment's official landscape painters whose jobs it is to make sure the public does not discover the C.F.R. and its role in creating a world socialist dictatorship."

Centralized Control of History, Media, and Academia

The mainstream media appears to serve multiple functions. First, to distribute information that the controlling cabal wants you to believe is real news. Secondly, to assist in the cover-up of information that has leaked out through other sources. In other words, Damage Control. Thirdly, as a weapon to assassinate the characters of those who expose the practices of the Establishment. Also, to act as a firewall to prevent information detrimental to the elite's control from reaching the public. Finally, to continue to reinforce mainstream accounts of current and historical events. The mainstream news essentially serves as a primary tool for social conditioning or mind-control.

"It is through the press and the media that the lie is penetrating through to the masses," declared Professor Marrs. The media is used as a weapon. So when you watch, read, or listen to mainstream news, ask yourself, "what will the CFR like me to believe today?"

Centralized Control of History, Media, and Academia

I refuse to pay attention to a "controversy" that stems from some ignorant redneck reality show. The next thing you know the rocket scientists that live in this country will froth themselves up into a revolution over something Honey Boo Boo says. Or Kim Kardashian. Or Sig Hansen.

Meanwhile, there are real problems and atrocities happening world-wide right now. Please, someone wipe this country off the map and put us out of our misery.

reply to post by Dutchowl

Its stupid to have companies be in fear of activists and be so hyper reactive to what spokespeople say or do. Consumers will decide whats right or wrong and if it bothers them or not.

It would appear the Consumers Have Decided and there are an group of people out there or an organization that does not like the Consumer being the one's making their own Decisions, it's just not in their Best Interest.
That's right folks, you aren't smart enough to think for your self, you don't understand what is a Racist comment or Homophobic Comment. You see, it's No Longer Allowed, for you to speck you own Mind or that of your Beliefs.
Shut-Up and Set-Down and they'll do all you're thinking for you and tell you what to believe and what's Right and Wrong.

The Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. has stepped into the “Duck Dynasty” uproar, using the case of civil rights hero Rosa Parks to make his case against show star Phil Robertson.
“At least the bus driver, who ordered Rosa Parks to surrender her seat to a white person, was following state law,” Jackson said in a statement, according to the Chicago Tribune. “Robertson’s statements were uttered freely and openly without cover of the law, within a context of what he seemed to believe was ‘white privilege.’”

Yes, That's right my friends, J. J. has entered the House, he's going to tell YOU what to believe Maybe he should clean up his own back yard first, and if you don't know what I'm talking about about, just Google.

Jackson and his civil rights group Rainbow PUSH Coalition have demanded a meeting with the A&E network, which broadcasts the hugely popular “Duck Dynasty,” and restaurant Cracker Barrel, which carries “Duck Dynasty” merchandise.

Jackson: Ducks Stars White Privilege

Robertson’s statements were uttered freely and openly without cover of the law, within a context of what he seemed to believe was ‘white privilege.’”
The release, dated Dec. 23, requests a meeting within 72 hours with A&E and Cracker Barrel execs and urges the network to uphold Robertson’s suspension.
Jackson and GLAAD said they believe it’s not right for a personality with such a large platform to benefit from such comments.

Jesse Jackson
Really, J. J. just trying to get some of those National Headlines he's missing out on. Cracker Barrel should just tell Old J. J. and his PUSH people, You're A Has-Been Go-Away, Mind Your Own Business, Cracker Barrel has Listened to their Paying Customers. If that Offends anyone, go to McDonalds.
A&E should listen to their Advertiser's, that's where the money is, Not GLAAD or J. J. or PUSH!
J. J. will have his hand out, he needs to keep paying his child support.

reply to post by MystikMushroom


I have to agree, this completely frames my own sentiments about words, having a conviction about anything that might offend someone else, I always ascribe to this, if you don't have anything to say, don't say it all and the the most meaningful, if you can't say it to someones face don't say it either.

Cameras, newspapers, forums and blogs are the perfect medium for someone including complete cowards to spread hate, but yet they would think twice to say it in public or where they work because deep down they know their words will hurt someone and they have some sort of repercussion or punishment awaiting them that they will eventually regret.

The easiest way to combat the hateful is to not let their words affect you therefore your remove their power.

I'm waiting for the 72 hour time limit ti expire for A&E to meet with the Has-Been Rev. J. J.
and his PUSH coalition. ( Thugs )
I'm hoping A&E has the good sense to tell the rev. j. j. to Go Home or just ignore him completely.
You know he's just looking to be the National Spotlight.
I heard he's made the same demands of Cracker Barrel too.

According to ABC News, Jackson and his Rainbow PUSH coalition are demanding to meet with A&E about the future of the show.

jesse jackson

A&E has already suspended Robertson, but Reverend Jackson, his Rainbow PUSH Coalition and GLAAD are demanding to meet with network execs, along with Cracker Barrel’s CEO, to discuss the future of all “Duck Dynasty” memorabilia or content.

WHY, The Public has already Spoken, is the Majority Not To Be Supported?
OH, The Majority doesn't Support Your Views, So we must be Racist and Silenced!

The release, dated Dec. 23, requests a meeting within 72 hours with A&E and Cracker Barrel execs and urges the network to uphold Robertson’s suspension.
Jackson and GLAAD said they believe it’s not right for a personality with such a large platform to benefit from such comments.

Good, then the Same Applies To YOU! Go Home!
Jesse and Phil

Jackson woke up must have realized cammo is green like money . Only a few weeks late but has to re stir the pot $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

reply to post by guohua


I don't think Jackson even carries the respect of his dog. Stick a fork in this one.....

pstrron
reply to post by sligtlyskeptical

 

This is very true. Anytime PC gets to the point that a person cannot state their opinion based on their faith or even moral convictions, PC needs to be put in check. Actually it is not just in the US that this type of behavior is considered deviant by the majority of the population despite GLAAD, LGBT and the government trying to say otherwise. It may be allowed and tolerated to an extent but trying to force people to accept a lifestyle that they do not agree with can have major backlash.

Millions of people have become quite vocal regarding this issue and speaking out against GLAAD and A&E. Thus they should both be learning a lesson regarding what the people really think.

Even where I live this type of behavior is unacceptable and is not tolerated. They don't put them in jail or other things but then again there is no GLAAD or LGBT pushing their agenda's either as it is considered an attack on family and moral issues.

At least Cracker Barrel was big enough to listen to its customers and jump off the PC wagon. People should be able to say what they feel is right or wrong without fearing some group that has an agenda attacking them. Whither A&E, GLAAD, LGBT or anyone else agrees or disagrees with Phil is immaterial, he has a right to his beliefs and opinions and can state them. Whereas everyone else has the right to agree or disagree without fear of being attacked.

... and yet, a majority of recent popular surveys indicate that more Americans accept gays and Lesbians today than ever before. (Source)

Really, this issue is not about anyone "accepting" sexual behavior between other consenting adults ... or not. It's not about some innate right to compare the behaviors of other people with your own religious standards regularly and publicly without expecting others to reply in kind.

It's about the American concept that each citizen has a reasonable expectation to be treated fairly and equitably under the law. Anything else is more obfuscation or as some would phrase it "BS."

... and yet, one wonders that it is almost always the "sin" of homosexuality ONLY that gets the most airtime with those who claim to have a moral [sic] or religious issue in the matter, but who ignore the other "sins" almost completely, or claim that everyone is a sinner, blood of Jesus, etc. I don't hear anyone regularly coming out against "the drunkards" or "the swindlers" or "the adulterers" with anything even approaching that which is addressed to gay people. Wonder why?

A single study came out in October 2013 (Source) that might explain a lot in regard to this oddity. It is only one study and more research needs to be done. However, the gist is this: more Americans actually harbor negative feelings about gays and lesbians than they will normally admit. This may be an unconscious response but it is statistically notable. The same study (using the “veiled elicitation method” to correct for social desirability bias) found that "The veiled method increased self-reports of non-heterosexual identity by 65% and same-sex sexual experiences by 59% ."

Simplistically put, if the real issue we're dealing with culturally is not overt homosexual behavior but rather repressed or self-denied actions and/or desires ... then the obsession on the part of some with what others are doing in their bedrooms starts to make a bit more sense.

I can't wait till Phil tell him he's on Christmas Vacation come back next year

reply to post by Malynn


could not have said it better myself. Did anyone ever tell you that you have the prettiest avatar on ATS

but to the OP please consider not posting non issues like this anymore its whats wrong with todays world, that and skinny jeans

mikell
I can't wait till Phil tell him he's on Christmas Vacation come back next year

I think Phil would tell him he needs to date 15 and 16 year olds. Because you know if you wait until they are 20 all the good ones are gone. Phil has the oddest coalition of supporters, southern christians, the KKK, Fred Phelps and company and now the pedo community. I would like to see that group together at a rally.