Richard ‘Rick’ Hurst, Dukes of Hazzard Star Known for Playing Deputy Cletus Hogg, Dies at 79

Dukes of Hazzard star Richard “Rick” Hurst has died. He was 79.

Hurst’s first wife Candace Kaniecki told TMZ that Hurst died in the morning on Thursday, June 26, and the death was unexpected. She said the cause of death is unknown.

Ben Jones, who played Cooter on The Dukes of Hazzard, also confirmed his death to The New York Times.

Additionally, the official fan page for the comedy series, which aired from 1979 to 1985, and which Hurst starred in from 1980 to 1983 as Deputy Cletus Hogg, paid tribute to the actor in a lengthy Instagram post following the news of his death.

In the fan page’s post, they described Hurst as “more than a character” to the fan base.

“He was family. His gentle smile, impeccable comedic timing, and kind-hearted spirit made every scene brighter,” the caption said.

“Off-screen, Rick was known for his generosity, humility, and love for connecting with fans at events across the country,” the post continued. “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.”

He brought “unforgettable charm” to his role as Deputy Cletus Hogg.

“The beloved actor who brought warmth, humor, and unforgettable charm to the role of Deputy Cletus Hogg on The Dukes of Hazzard,” the post continued.

“Rick’s passing is a profound loss, but his memory will forever ride shotgun in the hearts of those who grew up watching him, laughing with him, and loving him. Rest easy, Rick. You made the world a little lighter.”

He starred alongside Catherine Bach, who played Daisy Duke, John Schneider who played Bo Duke, Tom Wopat as Luke Duke, and James Best, who played Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane.

Hurst was preceded in death amongst the cast members by Best, who starred in all seven seasons of The Dukes of Hazzard, and died in 2015. He was 88.

After The Dukes of Hazzard ended, Hurst reprised his role as Deputy Cletus Hogg in two TV movies, 1997’s The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion! and 2000’s The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood.

Outside of Hazzard, Hurst was known for his role on the sitcom On the Rocks from 1975 to 1976, and he also appeared in several movies, including Steel Magnolias, Earth Girls are Easy, The Karate Kid Part III.

He also made one-off appearances on several hit shows, including Little House on the Prairie, M*A*S*H, CHiPs, The Wonder Years and Melrose Place.

He is survived by his son Ryan Hurst, who played Opie Winston on Sons of Anarchy, his first wife and his second wife, Katherine Shelley Weir.