The Dukes of Hazzard actor was found dead at 79, with cause of death unconfirmed
- Replies 2
It’s a sad day for fans of classic television. A well-loved actor—best known for his role as the bumbling but lovable deputy on The Dukes of Hazzard—has passed away at the age of 79.
The news was confirmed by his wife, who shared that Rick died unexpectedly on Thursday. As of now, no cause of death has been reported.
For many Aussies, The Dukes of Hazzard was a staple of weekend TV in the late 1970s and early '80s, with its wild car chases, slapstick humour, and unforgettable characters.
Rick Hurst’s portrayal of Cletus Hogg, the cousin of the infamous Boss Hogg, brought a unique charm and comedic timing to the show that endeared him to generations of viewers.
Rick’s passing comes just days before he was scheduled to appear at a fan event at Cooter’s Place, a Dukes of Hazzard-themed museum and store in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
The event, set for July 3rd, was highly anticipated by fans eager to meet the actor and reminisce about the good old days of Hazzard County.
Sadly, the museum announced on Facebook that the event would be rescheduled due to 'unforeseen circumstances,' a message that has since been removed.
The Nashville branch of Cooter’s Place later posted a heartfelt tribute to Rick, honouring his legacy and the joy he brought to fans.
While Rick Hurst will always be remembered as Cletus, his career spanned far beyond the dusty roads of Hazzard.
He was a familiar face on television throughout the 1970s and 1980s, often cast as police officers or detectives in shows like The Doris Day Show, Sanford and Son, The Partridge Family, Get Christie Love!, and The Blue Knight.
He even donned a soldier’s uniform in M*A*S*H and the miniseries From Here to Eternity.
Rick’s versatility as an actor saw him guest-starring on a slew of iconic series, including The Bob Newhart Show, Gunsmoke, Kojak, Happy Days, Little House on the Prairie, The Six Million Dollar Man, Baretta, and Murder, She Wrote.
He was the kind of actor who could pop up anywhere, always bringing a touch of humour and heart to his roles.
After his time on The Dukes of Hazzard, Rick joined the cast of Amanda’s, a short-lived American remake of the British classic Fawlty Towers, starring Bea Arthur.
Although the show only lasted 10 episodes, Rick’s comedic talents as chef Earl Nash were highlighted.
Rick didn’t just stick to the small screen. He appeared in several notable films, including Executive Action (1973), W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings (1975) alongside Burt Reynolds, The Cat from Outer Space (1978), and the Karate Kid trilogy.
He also had roles in Earth Girls Are Easy (1988), Steel Magnolias (1989), and In the Line of Fire (1993).
Rick is survived by his wife, Candace, and his son, Ryan Hurst, who has carved out his own successful acting career.
Ryan is best known for his roles as Gerry Bertier in Remember the Titans and as Opie Winston in the hit series Sons of Anarchy.
He’s also appeared in Bates Motel, Bosch, and The Walking Dead, proving that the acting gene runs strong in the Hurst family.
Rick Hurst’s passing marks the end of an era for fans of classic television, but his legacy lives on through his memorable performances and the joy he brought to millions.
Whether you remember him as the hapless Deputy Cletus or from his many other roles, Rick’s warmth, humour, and talent will not be forgotten.
For many of us, shows like The Dukes of Hazzard were more than just entertainment—they were a part of our lives, a source of laughter and comfort.
Rick Hurst helped make those memories special, and fans around the world will feel his loss.
Credit: YouTube
We’d love to hear your memories of Rick Hurst and The Dukes of Hazzard. Did you have a favourite episode or character? Did you ever meet Rick at a fan event? Share your stories and tributes in the comments below.
Read more: Rock icon dies at 81, fans reflect on music and legacy
The news was confirmed by his wife, who shared that Rick died unexpectedly on Thursday. As of now, no cause of death has been reported.
For many Aussies, The Dukes of Hazzard was a staple of weekend TV in the late 1970s and early '80s, with its wild car chases, slapstick humour, and unforgettable characters.
Rick Hurst’s portrayal of Cletus Hogg, the cousin of the infamous Boss Hogg, brought a unique charm and comedic timing to the show that endeared him to generations of viewers.
Rick’s passing comes just days before he was scheduled to appear at a fan event at Cooter’s Place, a Dukes of Hazzard-themed museum and store in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
The actor known for playing Deputy Cletus Hogg in The Dukes of Hazzard was found dead at 79, with no cause of death reported. Credit: Facebook
The event, set for July 3rd, was highly anticipated by fans eager to meet the actor and reminisce about the good old days of Hazzard County.
Sadly, the museum announced on Facebook that the event would be rescheduled due to 'unforeseen circumstances,' a message that has since been removed.
The Nashville branch of Cooter’s Place later posted a heartfelt tribute to Rick, honouring his legacy and the joy he brought to fans.
While Rick Hurst will always be remembered as Cletus, his career spanned far beyond the dusty roads of Hazzard.
He was a familiar face on television throughout the 1970s and 1980s, often cast as police officers or detectives in shows like The Doris Day Show, Sanford and Son, The Partridge Family, Get Christie Love!, and The Blue Knight.
He even donned a soldier’s uniform in M*A*S*H and the miniseries From Here to Eternity.
Rick’s versatility as an actor saw him guest-starring on a slew of iconic series, including The Bob Newhart Show, Gunsmoke, Kojak, Happy Days, Little House on the Prairie, The Six Million Dollar Man, Baretta, and Murder, She Wrote.
He was the kind of actor who could pop up anywhere, always bringing a touch of humour and heart to his roles.
After his time on The Dukes of Hazzard, Rick joined the cast of Amanda’s, a short-lived American remake of the British classic Fawlty Towers, starring Bea Arthur.
Rick didn’t just stick to the small screen. He appeared in several notable films, including Executive Action (1973), W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings (1975) alongside Burt Reynolds, The Cat from Outer Space (1978), and the Karate Kid trilogy.
He also had roles in Earth Girls Are Easy (1988), Steel Magnolias (1989), and In the Line of Fire (1993).
Rick is survived by his wife, Candace, and his son, Ryan Hurst, who has carved out his own successful acting career.
Ryan is best known for his roles as Gerry Bertier in Remember the Titans and as Opie Winston in the hit series Sons of Anarchy.
He’s also appeared in Bates Motel, Bosch, and The Walking Dead, proving that the acting gene runs strong in the Hurst family.
Whether you remember him as the hapless Deputy Cletus or from his many other roles, Rick’s warmth, humour, and talent will not be forgotten.
For many of us, shows like The Dukes of Hazzard were more than just entertainment—they were a part of our lives, a source of laughter and comfort.
Rick Hurst helped make those memories special, and fans around the world will feel his loss.
Credit: YouTube
Read more: Rock icon dies at 81, fans reflect on music and legacy
.png){kind=icon}
May comfort be extended to your loved ones.
Condolences to his loved ones 
