LOUISIANA, July 27, 2025 — Junior Edwards, a foundational cast member of the long-running reality series Swamp People, has died. The news was shared via a Facebook announcement by his grandson and co-star, “Little” Willie Edwards.
A Seasoned Hunter Remembered
Swamp People, which premiered on the History Channel in 2010, documented the lives of alligator hunters in the Atchafalaya River Basin. Junior Edwards was a key figure in the show, appearing in seasons one through six and later returning for season 12 in 2021. His presence on the show spanned a total of 100 episodes.
“Rest easy pawpaw….i know your [sic] 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,” “Little” Willie Edwards posted, sharing a photo of his father and grandfather on a boat. While a specific cause of death has not been disclosed, earlier posts from July indicated that the veteran alligator hunter was facing health challenges.
“Yall keep him in yalls thoughts and prayers please…we need a miracle,” “Little” Willie Edwards wrote on July 6. “Get better for us papa we love you!!!”
The Season 16 finale of Swamp People aired in April, with the series slated for a return in 2026. Junior Edwards’ passing prompted heartfelt tributes from fellow cast members, including Ronnie Adams and Ashley “Deadeye” Jones.
“Praying for the Edward’s [sic] in this time of need!!! Rest in peace Junior!!!” Adams wrote on Instagram.
Jones remembered Edwards as a true legend and one of the most skilled alligator hunters. “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! He was real hardcore outdoorsman! I watched this man bring in MONSTER gators at Duffys Gas Station in Pierre Part LA,” Jones shared on social media, accompanying the post with a photo of herself with Edwards. “This was after a looooong day for both of us and you can tell it! Glad we took a second for a pic!”
