Farewell, Deputy Cletus: Dukes of Hazzard Star Rick Hurst Dies at 79!

Hollywood bids farewell to a beloved character actor, Rick Hurst, best known for his endearing portrayal of Deputy Cletus Hogg on the iconic CBS action-comedy series The Dukes of Hazzard. Hurst passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the age of 79. His death was confirmed by Cooter's Place museum, a popular Dukes of Hazzard fan destination where Hurst was a frequent and cherished guest.

Early Life and The Call to Acting

Born Richard Douglas Hurst on January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas, Hurst discovered his passion for performance early on. He pursued his education diligently, earning a bachelor's degree from Tulane University in 1968 and a Master of Fine Arts from Temple University in 1970. This solid academic foundation in drama prepared him for a diverse career that would see him become a familiar face on both the big and small screens.

Deputy Cletus Hogg: An Enduring Legacy

While Hurst had a respectable list of credits throughout his career, it was his role as Deputy Cletus Hogg in The Dukes of Hazzard (1979-1982) that cemented his place in television history. As the good-hearted, often bumbling, but ultimately loyal cousin of Boss Hogg, Cletus became a fan favorite. His comedic timing and ability to infuse the character with warmth and a touch of naiveté made him an essential part of the show's charm. Hurst appeared in over 50 episodes of the original series and reprised his role in two reunion TV movies: The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion! (1997) and The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood (2000).

A Versatile Character Actor: Beyond Hazzard County

Beyond his most famous role, Rick Hurst was a prolific actor who graced numerous television shows and films, often excelling at playing affable, sometimes clumsy, authority figures. His career spanned several decades, showcasing his versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles.

Notable Television Appearances include:

• The Doris Day Show (1971-1972)

• Sanford and Son (1972)

• The Partridge Family (1972)

• MASH* (1972)

• Happy Days (1974)

• Little House on the Prairie (1974)

• Get Christie Love! (1974)

• Baretta (1975)

• CHiPs (1977)

• Murder, She Wrote (1984)

• Highway to Heaven (1984)

• The Wonder Years (1988)

• Family Matters (1989)

• Melrose Place (1992)

• The Client (1995)

• The Guardian (2001)

Hurst also had a brief stint as a regular on the 1983 Bea Arthur series Amanda's, a U.S. adaptation of the British hit Fawlty Towers.

His Film Credits include:

• Executive Action (1973)

• W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings (1975)

• Tunnel Vision (1976)

• The Cat from Outer Space (1978)

• Going Ape! (1981)

• Earth Girls Are Easy (1988)

• The Karate Kid Part III (1989)

• Steel Magnolias (1989)

• In the Line of Fire (1993)

• Anywhere But Here (1999)

• Venomous (2001)

• Return of the Killer Shrews (2012)

Family and Legacy

Rick Hurst is survived by his two sons, Ryan Hurst, also a well-known actor from Sons of Anarchy, and Collin Hurst. He was married to Shelly Weir, Collin's mother.

Hurst's passing marks the end of an era for fans of classic television. His portrayal of Deputy Cletus Hogg brought smiles to millions and secured his place in the hearts of Dukes of Hazzard enthusiasts. Beyond this iconic role, Rick Hurst's extensive filmography showcases a dedicated actor who consistently delivered memorable performances. He will be remembered for his warmth, his comedic talent, and the lasting joy he brought to audiences.