What Happened To William "Willie" Edwards After Swamp People Season 16

William "Willie" Edwards may no longer be a part of Swamp People, but his love for hunting alligators remains intact after his time on the History Channel series. Born in the 1980s and raised in Bayou Sorrel, Louisiana, Willie learned the ropes from his parents, Junior and Theresa Edwards.

Willie began hunting at a young age; he mastered techniques such as treble hooking and became skilled at navigating the swamps for big alligators. In 2010, Willie joined the History Channel's gator-hunting series Swamp People. His remarkable hunting skills and underwater expertise consistently left many viewers impressed.

Willie appeared in Swamp People season 1 with his father in August 2010, and gradually transitioned into one of the main characters. Willie took on more responsibilities and became more independent. He married his wife, Sherrie, in the early 2000s and welcomed three children: William, Landon, and Michaela.

Willie also worked with his brother, Randy Edwards, who tragically passed away in a car accident in 2018 at the young age of 35. Over the years, Willie not only established himself as a main star on Swamp People but also achieved milestones in his personal life, keeping audiences interested in him.

Willie's Journey On Swamp People

Credit: MovieStillsDB

Willie experienced various challenges and triumphs during his time on Swamp People. One of his most noteworthy moments occurred in season 14, when his adult son, Little Willie, joined him on the show. Hunting alongside his son on TV was a significant and rewarding experience, considering Willie had first appeared on TV with his father almost 15 years prior.

In 2025, Willie surprised viewers by temporarily leaving Swamp People. Still, viewers were pleased to see his son, Little Willie, carry on the family tradition. Little Willie got the chance to team up with Jacob Landry in Swamp People season 16.

Willie Lost His Brother Eight Years Ago

Sadly, Willie experienced a major tragedy in 2018 when his brother, Randy, passed away in a car accident. Although he didn't personally release a statement, his representative, Ronnie, posted on the official Facebook page of Junior and Willie Edward, stating, "It is in deep sadness that I make this post. Junior and Theresa's son, Willie's brother, Randy, passed away in a vehicle accident early this morning."

At the time, the family requested privacy and prayers. The tragedy hasn't been addressed on Swamp People, but has clearly impacted Willie and his whole extended family as they've lived their lives without Randy.

Willie Is Still Working In The Swamps

While fans have been concerned about Willie's absence from Swamp People since season 16, his social media updates suggest there is no need to worry about his future as an alligator hunter. In September 2024, Willie posted a photo of himself and his son on Facebook, showing that they had caught a few big alligators, indicating that he was still working in the swamps.

Willie didn't share the backstory behind the photo, but he received many positive comments complimenting his catch. One Facebook user wrote, "That's a big lizard," while another added, "Can't believe you do this alone. Pretty great though."

Will Willie Ever Return To Swamp People?

While Willie hasn't been back on Swamp People in the last few seasons, it's possible he could return in the future. Though he's been part of the Swamp People family for years, it wouldn't be surprising to see him retire from the show now that his son, Little Willie, has joined the series.

However, it also won't be shocking to see him return in a future season. Willie still hunts and appears to be in good shape, so he isn't too old to retire from hunting yet. Hopefully, viewers will have the opportunity to see him on Swamp People again.

Sources: William "Willie" Edwards/Facebook, William "Willie" Edwards/Facebook