Bella Robertson of ‘Duck Dynasty’ Breaks Silence on Infertility Struggle
LOS ANGELES, June 4 – Bella Robertson Mayo, the youngest daughter of Duck Dynasty stars Willie and Korie Robertson, has opened up for the first time about her and her husband Jacob Mayo’s private battle with infertility.
The couple, who married in June 2021, shared their story ahead of the premiere of Duck Dynasty: The Revival. The new reality series features more than just family traditions—it offers an honest look into the challenges the young couple has faced in trying to start a family.
A Painful, Private Battle
“We share a story of infertility in the show, and that’s something that we haven’t really shared publicly,” said Bella, 22, in an interview with Us Weekly. “When you just look at someone on social media, you can’t know what anyone’s going through.”
Since their wedding on a Louisiana farm, Bella and Jacob, 26, have been frequently asked about their plans for children. But behind the scenes, things have not gone as hoped.
“I wish getting pregnant and having kids was as easy as people act like it is,” said Jacob. “People think you can just decide when to have kids, but it doesn’t work like that for everyone.”
Bella added, “When people comment about us having kids, we’re like, ‘Trust me, you don’t have to ask us.’”
Choosing to Share
The couple said they hesitated at first to talk about infertility on their new show. But they ultimately decided to be open, hoping to help others who may feel alone in similar struggles.
“It was not an easy decision,” Bella admitted. “We didn’t necessarily intend to share it, but it felt right. It’s one of the ways we’re being our authentic selves on this show.”
She explained that if their story could offer encouragement to even one person, it was worth sharing. “What are the odds that we’re on this stage where we can share something that is so real for so many?”
A Widespread Issue
Infertility affects millions around the world. According to the World Health Organization, about 1 in 6 adults globally—or 17.5% of the population—experience infertility. In the United States, it affects about 11% of women and 9% of men of reproductive age.
The Robertsons join a growing number of public figures who are speaking out. Among them is DawnCheré Wilkerson, co-leader of VOUS Church in Miami, who has shared her eight-year struggle with infertility.
Wilkerson urged people facing loss not to isolate. “It’s not about the words that are said but about having people who love you stand with you,” she said. Citing Matthew 5, she added, “You’re blessed when you’re part of the community of God… even in your deepest, darkest pain, you will receive comfort from those around you.”
Hope in Community
For Bella and Jacob, that message hits close to home. Their story is more than just a personal confession—it’s a message of shared hope. They want others who are struggling with infertility to know they are not alone.
“We hope by sharing this part of our journey, someone else feels seen,” said Bella. “This is our way of showing up, being real, and trusting that it might help someone else feel a little less alone.”
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