Rick Hurst, who brought laughs to millions as Deputy Cletus Hogg on “The Dukes of Hazzard,” has died at the age of 79. His death was confirmed on June 26, 2025, through a post on the Cooter’s Place social media pages, a spot run by his longtime co-star Ben Jones.
Fans of the classic show remember Rick Hurst for his clumsy charm, warm smile, and ability to make even the silliest situations feel real. His performance turned a small-town deputy into a lasting TV icon, one that defined part of the ’80s for a generation.
The cause of death has not been released. Hurst’s family, friends, and fans are still trying to come to terms with the sudden loss. His death leaves a noticeable hole in the close-knit community of “Dukes of Hazzard” fans, where Hurst was a “family.”
Cooter’s Place / Instagram / Just weeks ago, Hurst appeared at a retirement celebration for Ben Jones at Cooter’s Place in Luray, Virginia.
He seemed full of life, chatting with fans and sharing memories from his days in Hazzard County. He had been scheduled to appear in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, in early July, but that event was quietly canceled Thursday morning.
Born in Texas and trained in drama, Rick Hurst began acting in the 1970s. But it was “The Dukes of Hazzard” that made him a household name. He played Deputy Cletus Hogg from 1980 to 1983, later returning in two made-for-TV movies in the late ’90s and 2000. His character was the lovable sidekick to Sheriff Rosco, often stumbling through chases but always with a big heart.
Rick Hurst showed up in everything from “MASH” to “Little House on the Prairie.” He even made appearances in “The Wonder Years” and had roles in cult films like “The Karate Kid Part III,” “Steel Magnolias,” and “Earth Girls Are Easy.”
The Dukes of Hazzard confirmed the news on Instagram:
View this post on Instagram
Ben Jones, who played Cooter, called Rick a “wonderfully supportive colleague.” The two had a friendship that lasted decades, both on screen and off. In 2021, they sat down together on “Issues and Answers” with Steve Hensley, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the original “Dukes” festival.
Fans say what made Rick Hurst special was not just the laughter he brought, but how real he was. At fan events, he took his time, listened, and laughed. He hugged strangers like old friends. Social media lit up with stories of his kindness, his patience, and that gentle smile that seemed like it never left his face.
Dylan Novak / Instagram / Hurst is survived by his two sons, actors Ryan Hurst, best known for “Sons of Anarchy,” and Collin Hurst.
He also leaves behind his former wives, Candace Kaniecki and Katherine Shelley Weir. His family has not yet commented publicly, but tributes from fellow actors and longtime fans continue to pour in.
Rick Hurst was the kind of actor who made you feel like you knew him. He wasn’t flashy. Instead, he just showed up, did the work, and gave people something to smile about. In a time when TV characters often feel over-polished, Cletus Hogg stood out because he was just human.
