Junior Edwards, 'Swamp People' star, passes away: Fans mourn the loss of a true bayou legend

Junior Edwards passes away

Junior Edwards, the beloved alligator hunter and fan-favourite from the long-running History Channel series Swamp People, has sadly passed away, leaving behind a deep void in the hearts of fans, fellow cast members, and the larger Louisiana community.

His death was confirmed by his grandson, Willie Edwards Jr., affectionately known as “Lil Willie,” in an emotional Facebook tribute posted on 26 July.

“Rest easy pawpaw…. I know you’re probably running your hoop nets or doing something crazy inside those pearly gates… You will be extremely missed pawpaw. We love you more than anything!!! Until we meet again,” Willie wrote, expressing the profound grief felt by the family.

While an official cause of death has not been made public, Junior was reportedly facing serious health issues in recent weeks.

Earlier this month, Willie had shared a concerning update on social media, writing, “Well guys, those of you that don’t know… my grandpa has been dealing with some health issues. Y’all keep him in y’all’s thoughts and prayers please… we need a miracle. Get better for us papa, we love you!!!”

Tributes have been pouring in, with fellow Swamp People star Ashley “Deadeye” Jones posting a heartfelt message on Instagram: “The world lost a legend! Mr. Junior Edwards passed away! Please be in prayer for the family! He was one of the greatest alligator hunters there is!" She fondly recalled a photo they had taken together in Pierre Part, Louisiana, writing, “Glad we took a second for a pic!”

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Edwards rose to prominence when Swamp People first aired in 2010, quickly becoming a staple of the show thanks to his expertise, wit, and unshakeable connection to the bayou. He featured regularly until Season 6 and made a surprise return in Season 12 (2021), much to the delight of longtime viewers: “Surprise… look who’s back,” he announced.

Beyond television, Junior Edwards was a seasoned commercial fisherman who upheld Louisiana’s rich swamp culture and traditions. Though details such as his age and exact date of death remain undisclosed, his legacy as a true outdoorsman lives on.