Actor Rick Hurst Death and Legacy at 79

The world of classic television has lost one of its beloved figures. Rick Hurst, best known for his unforgettable role as Deputy Cletus Hogg in the hit CBS sitcom The Dukes of Hazzard, has passed away at the age of 79. The news of his death was confirmed on Thursday by his co-star and longtime friend Ben Jones, who portrayed “Cooter” on the show.

Actor Rick Hurst Death and Legacy at 79

Jones made the announcement through a heartfelt message posted on the Facebook page of Cooter’s Place, a museum dedicated to preserving the legacy of The Dukes of Hazzard and its cast. The tribute, filled with fond memories and emotional reflections, struck a chord with fans of the show and with those who knew Rick personally and professionally.

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A Farewell from a Friend and Co-Star

“It doesn’t seem right that Rick Hurst passed away this afternoon,” wrote Jones in the emotional Facebook post. “When something so unexpected happens, it is ‘harder to process,’ as the current expression goes.” His words expressed the suddenness of the loss and the depth of his grief.

Actor Rick Hurst Death and Legacy at 79

Jones reminisced about their 45-year friendship, describing Hurst as someone who never failed to bring a smile or laugh. “Sure he was a professional comedian, but mostly he just had a heart as big as Texas,” he said. In Jones’ eyes, Hurst was more than just an actor he was a constant source of warmth, joy, and kindness.

“He was a fine actor, a splendid comic, and a wonderfully supportive colleague,” Jones continued, capturing the essence of who Rick was, both on and off the screen. His tribute was not only a farewell but also a celebration of a life that touched so many.

A Perfect Fit in Hazzard County

Rick Hurst became a household name thanks to his role on The Dukes of Hazzard, a series that aired from 1979 to 1985 and became an enduring symbol of American TV culture. The show followed the misadventures of the Duke cousins as they raced through the fictional Hazzard County, often clashing with the law particularly the bumbling but loveable lawmen.

Hurst joined the series in 1979 as Deputy Cletus Hogg, cousin of the infamous Boss Hogg, and quickly became a fan favorite. Over the course of 55 episodes, his portrayal of the dim-witted but good-natured deputy captured the hearts of viewers. His comedic timing, physical humor, and country charm made him a natural fit for the show’s quirky, over-the-top tone.

“He fit right in and never stopped making people smile until this afternoon,” wrote Jones, describing how effortlessly Hurst blended into the show’s dynamic ensemble. Even after his departure in 1982, his legacy within the series remained intact and his character is still celebrated by fans to this day.

A Heaven Full of Laughter

In his tribute, Ben Jones also took a moment to reflect on other cast members of The Dukes of Hazzard who have passed away James Best (Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane), Sorrell Booke (Boss Hogg), and Denver Pyle (Uncle Jesse). Jones painted a heartwarming picture of Hurst joining them once again.

Actor Rick Hurst Death and Legacy at 79

“I don’t know about y’all, but I believe in an afterlife, and I can see Rick up there in Heaven with Jimmy Best and Sorrell Booke and Denver Pyle, putting on the funniest show inside those Pearly Gates,” he wrote. It was a poetic tribute to a comedic ensemble that once brought joy to millions of households and will now continue their antics in spirit.

“Rest in Peace, old friend,” he concluded simple words that carried decades of friendship, laughter, and respect.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Before landing his iconic role in The Dukes of Hazzard, Rick Hurst had built a respectable career as a character actor. He appeared in the sitcom On the Rocks between 1975 and 1976, participating in 24 episodes. The show, a prison-based comedy, provided Hurst with a platform to showcase his knack for humor and physical comedy.

However, it wasn’t until he joined The Dukes of Hazzard that his talents reached a broader audience. His performance as Cletus was not only funny but relatable a good-hearted guy trying to do his job in a town filled with fast cars, colorful characters, and constant chaos. Hurst brought depth to what could have been a one-dimensional comedic role, turning Cletus into a lovable icon of ’80s television.

Life After Hazzard County

After his departure from The Dukes of Hazzard, Hurst continued to work steadily in television. One of his notable roles was in Amanda’s, an American adaptation of the British classic Fawlty Towers. Although the show was short-lived, it demonstrated Hurst’s ability to adapt to different comedic styles and settings.

Over the years, he made appearances in numerous television shows and movies, including guest roles in popular series and small film parts. His versatility and consistent professionalism made him a reliable presence in the industry, even if he never again found a role as prominent as Cletus.

His last known screen appearance came in 2016, in a TV short titled B My Guest. It marked the end of a long, steady career in Hollywood, one defined more by warmth and likability than by stardom.

A Legacy That Lives On

Though Rick Hurst is no longer with us, his legacy remains very much alive especially through The Dukes of Hazzard, which continues to be syndicated and streamed around the world. Generations of fans have grown up with the adventures of the Duke boys, and Deputy Cletus Hogg remains a familiar and endearing character in the show’s rich tapestry.

There is a timelessness to Hurst’s comedic style gentle, self-deprecating, and full of charm. He was never trying to steal the scene, only to enrich it. And that, perhaps, is why his performances were so memorable. He brought authenticity to the absurd, and heart to the humorous.

Fans have taken to social media to share their condolences, fond memories, and favorite scenes featuring Hurst. Many recall his unique facial expressions, his perfectly timed pratfalls, and the unmistakable Southern warmth he brought to every role.

Beyond the Spotlight

While Hurst will always be remembered for his contributions to television, those who knew him speak just as much about the man behind the characters. Kind, supportive, and generous, he left a lasting impression not just on audiences, but on those he worked with.

In an industry often characterized by ego and competition, Rick Hurst stood out as a team player someone more interested in lifting others up than chasing personal fame. It’s a quality that earned him admiration from his peers and affection from fans.

The passing of Rick Hurst marks the end of an era for fans of The Dukes of Hazzard and classic American sitcoms. He may have played a comedic sidekick on television, but in real life, he was a central figure in the hearts of many. Through his laughter, performances, and kindness, he built a legacy that transcends the screen.

As Ben Jones so beautifully expressed, somewhere beyond the clouds, a reunion show is surely underway—with Rick Hurst taking center stage beside his old friends. Until then, his fans will continue to enjoy the reruns, laugh at his lines, and remember the man who made them smile for decades.

Rest in peace, Rick Hurst. Your humor lives on.

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