‘Dukes of Hazzard’ actor Rick Hurst dies at 79

Rick Hurst, best known for playing Deputy Cletus Hogg on The Dukes of Hazzard, has died at age 79, his wife confirmed. The actor’s sudden passing has left fans and former co-stars mourning the loss of one of Hazzard County’s most cherished faces.

Born in Houston, Texas, in 1946, Rick Hurst earned degrees from Tulane and Temple University before launching a decades-long acting career. He joined The Dukes of Hazzard in 1979 and became a fan favorite as the well-meaning but comically clumsy Deputy Cletus, cousin to the infamous Boss Hogg.

Initially a recurring character, Hurst stepped into a lead role in Season 3 before returning to guest appearances. Though the series wrapped in 1985, the cast’s bond continued long after.

“We’re a family still, after all these years,” co-star John Schneider once said. “The Dukes of Hazzard has not ended for the fans, and it has not ended for the cast or the crew.”

Sudden loss before fan gathering

Hurst died suddenly on Thursday, according to his wife, Candace Kaniecki. The cause of death has not been determined. His passing came just one week before he was scheduled to appear at a fan event at Cooter’s Place, a Dukes of Hazzard-themed museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

An early social media post from the museum referenced “unforeseen circumstances” as the reason for postponing the event. That message was later removed, and a tribute was posted instead.

Outside of his signature role, Hurst made memorable appearances on shows like Happy Days, Sanford and Son, MASH, and Little House on the Prairie. He also portrayed Bea Arthur’s comedic foil in Amanda’s and held supporting roles in major films including The Karate Kid, Steel Magnolias, and In The Line Of Fire.

Though known for playing lovable characters, Hurst had a wide-ranging acting portfolio that resonated across generations.

Hurst is survived by his wife, Candace, and their son, actor Ryan Hurst. Ryan is well-known for roles in Remember the Titans, Sons of Anarchy, and The Walking Dead. The father and son were occasionally seen together at industry events, showing a shared love for performance.

With the deaths of several Dukes cast members in recent years — including Sorrell Booke (Boss Hogg), Denver Pyle (Uncle Jesse), and James Best (Sheriff Rosco) — Rick Hurst’s passing marks yet another farewell for longtime fans.

Though the show’s future has faced controversy over its Confederate imagery, many still treasure the series for its humor, warmth, and family-style storytelling.

Rick Hurst brought more than laughs to The Dukes of Hazzard — he brought sincerity. For fans of Hazzard County, his absence will be deeply felt.