'Dukes of Hazzard' actor Rick Hurst leaves fan in mourning
Rick Hurst, known for Deputy Cletus Hogg on 'The Dukes of Hazzard' died aged 79
American actor Richard “Rick” Hurst fondly remembered as the kind-hearted Deputy Cletus Hogg on the hit CBS show The Dukes of Hazzard has died at the age of 79.
His ex-wife Candace Kaniecki confirmed his death on Thursday, June 26, 2025, describing it as unexpected.
From June 3-7, the actor was scheduled to appear at a Dukes-themed museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Cooter’s Place.
Following the news of his passing, the museum shared a heartfelt tribute: “To fans, he was more than a character, he was family.”
Speaking of his personality, the officials wrote, “Off-screen, Rick was known for his generosity, humility, and love for connecting with fans at events across the country. 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”.
Born in Houston on January 1, 1948, Hurst started his acting career in the early 1970s with making appearances on The Doris Day Show, Sanford and Son, and The Partridge Family. But his role as Deputy Cletus in The Dukes of Hazzard cemented his place in pop culture history.
Rick Hurst is survived by his son, actor Ryan Hurst, known for roles in Sons of Anarchy and Remember the Titans.
Was Rick Hurst ill?
Rick Hurt’s cause of death is still unknown. However, his ex-wife while confirming his death stated it was quite unexpected as the actor had planned to make an appearance at Cooter's Place.