“Dukes of Hazzard” Star Rick Hurst Dies at 79
Fans are mourning the sudden loss of Rick Hurst, best known for playing the lovable Deputy Cletus Hogg on The Dukes of Hazzard. He passed away unexpectedly at age 79 on Thursday, just a week before a scheduled appearance at Cooter’s Place, a fan event in Tennessee. His wife, Candace Kaniecki, confirmed the news, noting the cause of death is still unknown.
Born in Houston in 1946, Hurst earned degrees from Tulane and Temple University. He joined The Dukes of Hazzard in 1979 and became a fan favorite, especially during his time as a main character in Season 3. He later reunited with the cast in the 1997 and 2000 TV movies.
Beyond Dukes, Hurst had a long career in TV and film, with roles in Happy Days, Sanford and Son, MASH*, Steel Magnolias, and The Karate Kid trilogy. He is survived by his wife and son, actor Ryan Hurst (Sons of Anarchy, Remember the Titans).
His passing adds to the growing list of original Dukes cast members who have died, including Sorrell Booke, Denver Pyle, Waylon Jennings, and James Best. Hurst will be remembered for the warmth and joy he brought to fans around the world.
