Richard “Rick” Hurst, known for his role as Deputy Cletus Hogg on “The Dukes of Hazzard,” passed away unexpectedly on June 26, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. He was 79 years old.
His former wife, Candace Kaniecki, confirmed his death to TMZ, but the cause of death has not been disclosed. Ben Jones, who portrayed Cooter Davenport on the show, also shared the news via his Facebook page associated with Cooter’s Place museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Jones mentioned knowing Hurst for more than 45 years and noted that he always brought smiles and laughter during that time.
Born on January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas, Hurst pursued higher education, obtaining a bachelor’s degree from Tulane University and a master’s degree in fine arts from Temple University. His television career began in the early 1970s with guest appearances on series such as “The Partridge Family,” “Gunsmoke,” “Little House on the Prairie,” “The Six Million Dollar Man,” “Sanford and Son,” and “MASH.”
Hurst’s first major role was in 1975 when he was cast as Cleaver in the ABC sitcom “On the Rocks,” a show set in a minimum-security prison that aired for 24 episodes between 1975 and 1976.
His career took a significant turn in 1979 when he joined “The Dukes of Hazzard” cast. He first appeared in the 11th episode of that year as Deputy Cletus Hogg, the bumbling cousin of Boss Hogg, quickly becoming a fan favorite.
The character of Deputy Cletus initially served as a temporary replacement for Enos Strate, who left for a spinoff series. Eventually, Cletus became a regular character, transitioning from his junkyard job to the sheriff’s department. When Enos returned, both characters shared deputy responsibilities through the fifth season.
The show followed Bo and Luke Duke as they navigated corrupt officials in the fictional Hazzard County, Georgia. The series was a significant hit for CBS, particularly during its Friday night slot. Hurst appeared in 55 episodes from 1979 to 1982, frequently finding himself in ponds during car chases involving the Duke boys.
Jones recounted how well everything meshed when Hurst joined the cast, during the period Sonny Shroyer starred in “Enos.” He described Hurst as a fine actor and splendid comic who was a wonderfully supportive colleague, always bringing smiles to the set.
In 1982, Hurst departed “The Dukes of Hazzard” to feature in “Amanda’s,” an American adaptation of the British comedy “Fawlty Towers” with Bea Arthur, which lasted for just one season.
Hurst continued to work in both television and film for many years. His film credits include “W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings” (1975), “The Karate Kid Part III” (1989), “Steel Magnolias” (1989), “In the Line of Fire” (1993), “The Cat from Outer Space” (1978), and “Earth Girls Are Easy” (1988). On television, he appeared in series such as “Murder, She Wrote,” “Perfect Strangers,” “The Wonder Years,” “Melrose Place,” and “The Guardian.”
He reprised his role as Deputy Cletus in two reunion TV movies: “The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion!” in 1997 and “The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood” in 2000. Hurst was also a frequent attendee at fan conventions and events related to “The Dukes of Hazzard” across the nation.
Hurst was set to appear at Cooter’s Place in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, from July 3–7 for a meet-and-greet. However, the museum announced earlier on Thursday that his appearance would be rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances, with news of his death following shortly after.
John Schneider, who portrayed Luke Duke, paid tribute to Hurst on Facebook, describing him as a remarkable force for humanity, sanity, and comedy, adding that heaven is now a safer and more organized place.
The official “Dukes of Hazzard” fan page acknowledged Hurst’s warmth, humor, and unforgettable charm, emphasizing that to fans, he was more than just a character; he was part of the family.
Off-screen, Hurst was recognized for his humility, generosity, and sincere connection with fans. Jones remarked on his heart as big as Texas and noted that although he was a professional comedian, his naturally warm personality truly defined him.
Hurst is survived by his two sons, Ryan and Collin Hurst, both of whom pursued careers in the entertainment industry.
Rick Hurst was preceded in death by several “Dukes of Hazzard” co-stars, including James Best, who played Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane and passed away in 2015, along with Sorrell Booke (Boss Hogg) and Denver Pyle (Uncle Jesse).
Jones reflected on the possibility of Hurst joining James Best, Sorrell Booke, and Denver Pyle in heaven, putting on a comedic show beyond the Pearly Gates.
Hurst’s final acting role was in a TV short titled “B My Guest” in 2016, marking the conclusion of a career that spanned over four decades. Throughout his Hollywood journey, he remained committed to his craft while maintaining the humble and approachable nature that endeared him to fans and colleagues alike.
