Rick Hurst Tributes Pour in Following 'Dukes of Hazzard' Actor's Death

Newsweek

a day ago

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
Tributes have poured in for Rick Hurst, best known for playing Deputy Cletus Hogg on the hit series The Dukes of Hazzard, after he died at the age of 79.
Hurst's ex-wife, Candace Kaniecki, confirmed his death in Los Angeles on June 26 to TMZ, calling it "unexpected." The cause of death is not yet known—Newsweek has contacted the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) via email for comment.
Why It Matters
Hurst played an integral role in a television series that remains a cultural touchstone for fans of 1970s and 1980s American television. His character, Deputy Cletus Hogg, was a comedic and endearing fixture of The Dukes of Hazzard, remembered for his hapless attempts to catch Bo and Luke Duke and for the show's signature car chases and stunts.
His unexpected passing also highlights the end of an era for a show that, despite its controversies, continues to draw nostalgic viewership around the world.
What To Know
Born in 1946, in Houston, Texas, Hurst's acting career gained momentum with roles in sitcoms and dramas throughout the 1970s.
He joined The Dukes of Hazzard in 1979 during a time of transition in the cast, fitting in seamlessly and becoming a beloved figure both on-screen and at fan events across the country.
Hurst is survived by two sons, including Ryan Hurst, known for his role on Sons of Anarchy. The actor was married twice, most recently to Katherine Shelley Weir, until their divorce in 1991.
He had been scheduled to appear at Cooter's Place, a museum dedicated to The Dukes of Hazzard, on July 3.
What People Are Saying
Ben Jones, who played Cooter Davenport on The Dukes of Hazzard, paid tribute to Hurst in a heartfelt Facebook post shared by Cooter's Place: "I have known Rick for over 45 years and there wasn't a minute of that time that he didn't leave me smiling or laughing," he added: "He was a fine actor, a splendid comic, and a wonderfully supportive colleague."
The official Dukes of Hazzard fanpage wrote: "With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to Rick Hurst, the beloved actor who brought warmth, humor, and unforgettable charm to the role of Deputy Cletus Hogg on The Dukes of Hazzard.
"Rick passed away today, leaving behind a legacy that stretches far beyond Hazzard County."
"To fans, he was more than a character—he was family. His gentle smile, impeccable comedic timing, and kind-hearted spirit made every scene brighter. Off-screen, Rick was known for his generosity, humility, and love for connecting with fans at events across the country. Whether it was a reunion special or a meet-and-greet at Cooter's, he never stopped sharing his joy with the people who adored him."
Duke of Hazzards collector Larry Franks wrote on X: "Very sad news. Our great friend Rick Hurst has passed away. Please pray for his family. We will miss you Cletus!"
Very sad news. Our great friend Rick Hurst has passed away. Please pray for his family. We will miss you Cletus! pic.twitter.com/zMTfrfqyRr — Larry Franks (@larryafranks) June 27, 2025
Actor and singer John Schneider posted on Facebook: "I just this moment heard about the passing of dear Rick Hurst, a.k.a. Cletus Hogg. You were remarkable force for humanity, sanity and comedy my friend.
"Heaven is a safer and more organized place with you in it. We'll keep the race going and people laughing until we meet again!"
What Happens Next
It is not yet known what Hurst's cause of death was—Newsweek will update this story when that information is revealed.