The torch will be passed: Son of Outdoors TV legend will take the reins

SPARTA, TN. (WFXR) — Buck McNeely was a legend in the outdoors television industry. The show he created, “ The Outdoorsman with Buck McNeely” is the longest-running continuously running outdoors adventure program of all time. For more than three decades McNeely traveled around the world recording stories of hunting and fishing, often with his two sons Max and Rex.

McNeely died unexpectedly in January at the age of 63.

“It felt like superman had died; it was like no, there’s just no way,” said Max McNeely of his father.

“He was a great father and taught me many things,” added Rex McNeely.

While family and friends dealt with the immediate pain of losing Buck, there was also the question of whether the show would go on.

The answer is yes.

Max McNeely will take over the helm and become the new host. Shows are in production, right now. His brother Rex will appear in some episodes. The new shows will begin to air later this summer.

“I want to take that torch and let it burn even brighter than he had going,” said Max McNeely. “I know he’d be happy for that.”

“The Outdoorsman” with Buck McNeely and Max McNeely can be seen on WFXR-TV Sunday nights at 11:00 p.m. right after WFXR News First at Ten. It can also be seen on various Nexstar Media stations around country at various times. Check local listings.

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