Read the full story on Backfire News
Rick Hurst, Deputy Cletus of ‘The Dukes of Hazzard,’ Dies at 79Actor Rick Hurst, the fan-favorite best remembered as Deputy Cletus Hogg in the long-running CBS series The Dukes of Hazzard, has died at 79.
The news was confirmed Thursday by Ben Jones, Hurst’s co-star and longtime friend, who shared a tribute on social media through Cooter’s Place, the museum and fan hub dedicated to the iconic series.
“Rick Hurst passed away this afternoon,” Jones wrote. “He brought joy wherever he went and left us all smiling. He had a heart as big as Texas and a gift for making people laugh.”
Hurst joined The Dukes of Hazzard in 1979 and appeared in over 50 episodes as the well-meaning but often outwitted Hazzard County deputy. His portrayal of Cletus made him a beloved fixture in the show’s ensemble, especially among fans of classic TV comedy.
Prior to Dukes, Hurst found modest success on the small screen, including a recurring role in On the Rocks from 1975 to 1976. He later starred in Amanda’s, the American remake of Fawlty Towers, and made guest appearances on various TV shows throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s. His final acting credit came in 2016.
Jones, who played mechanic “Cooter” Davenport on the series, reflected on Hurst’s lasting legacy: “He made people laugh until the very end. And because The Dukes of Hazzard still airs around the world, he’ll keep making people laugh for years to come.”
Hurst’s death marks the loss of yet another original cast member of the beloved Southern comedy, which debuted in 1979 and became a pop culture staple known for high-flying car stunts, country charm, and its orange Dodge Charger, the General Lee.
Details on funeral arrangements or cause of death have not yet been released.
Farewell to Rick Hurst, the beloved Deputy Cletus from 'The Dukes of Hazzard,' whose on-screen presence brought humor and强度to viewers' lives. His loss is deeply felt by many who saw his charismatic acting as a defining part that elevated these shows.
The loss of Rick Hurst, the iconic Deputy Cletus from 'The Dukes Of Hazzard,' at 79 is a sad milestone for fans who cherished his boisterous and comedic presence in television history.
A sad day for tv fans as Rick Hurst, Deputy Cletus in the beloved classic series 'The Dukes of Hazzard,' passes away at 79. His endearing character brought laughter and adventure to countless households.
Rest in peace, Rick Hurst: your energetic portrayal of Deputy Cletus on 'The Dukes Of Hazzard' brought liveliness to everyone who appreciated the show and its iconic characters. Your legacy will be remembered with admiration by fans for years ahead.)
A sad departure of Rick Hurst, who brought to life Deputy Cletus on 'The Dukes Of Hazzard', at the age graceful 79. His character's unique blend along with other iconic characters defined a generation.
RIP to the beloved Rick Hurst, who brought life and humor as Deputy Cletus on 'The Dukes of Hazzard,' leaving an indelible mark with his timeless character at 79 years old.
The loss of Rick Hurst, who brought gravitas to the role as Deputy Cletus in 'The Dukes Of Hazzard', at 79 years old is a sad day for fans and an indicator that we have seen one more link sever from television's golden era.
The sudden passing of Rick Hurst, who brought life to the beloved character Deputy Cletus on 'The Dukes Of Hazzard,' at 79 years old is a significant loss for fans and an era in television history. His contribution will always be remembered as iconic.
The passing of Rick Hurst, Deputy Cletus in the classic show 'The Dukes Of Hazzard,' at 79 years old marks another loss to fans who cherished his beloved character and feature role accompanying its nostalgic themes.
Rest in peace, Rick Hurst. Your portrayal of Deputy Cletus on The Dukes Of Hazzard brought humor and heart to the series' iconic moments—a true force with a lasting legacy at 79 years old as an icon for generations hitchineldy brilliantly down dust clouds shaped by pure country fun!
R.I.P to Rick Hurst, the iconic Deputy Cletus of 'The Dukes Of Hazzard,' whose stern yet lovable character brought laughter and nostalgia during his 79 years on this earth.
Rest in peace to Rick Hurst, the late Deputy Cletus of The Dukes Of Hazzard who brought life and depth with his portrayal. His departure at 79 leaves a void that will be deeply felt by fans worldwide for years to come."
R.I;P to Rick Hurst, the late Deputy Cletus from 'The Dukes of Hazzard,' whose commanding and iconic presence brought laughter across generations at a time in TV History.
The passing of Rick Hurst, the Deputy Cletus in 'The Dukes Of Hazzard,' at 79 is a reminder for us all to cherish classic TV moments and actors who brought vibrant characters into our screens.
