Rick Hurst, best known for his role as Deputy Cletus Hogg on the classic CBS series “The Dukes of Hazzard,” has passed away at the age of 79. As reported by TMZ, the actor’s passing was initially confirmed by his ex-wife, Candace Kaniecki.
While the cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, tributes to the late actor have flooded social media from fans, former co-stars, and entertainment peers.
Fans and Co-Stars Celebrate Hurstâs Life and Legacy
Among those remembering Hurst is Ben Jones, who portrayed mechanic Cooter Davenport on the series. Jones, 83, shared a deeply personal message on Facebook, honoring his longtime friend and co-star.
“It doesn’t seem right that Rick Hurst passed away this afternoon. When something so unexpected happens, it is ‘harder to process’, as the current expression goes,” Jones wrote. “I have known Rick for over 45 years and there wasn’t a minute of that time that he didn’t leave me smiling or laughing. Sure he was a professional comedian, but mostly he just had a heart as big as Texas.”
Jones continued, highlighting Hurst’s professional achievements and kind spirit. “He was a fine actor, a splendid comic, and a wonderfully supportive colleague,” he said. “I don’t know about y’all but I believe in an afterlife, and I can see Rick up there in Heaven with [deceased Dukes of Hazzard cast members] Jimmy Best and Sorrell Booke and Denver Pyle, putting on the funniest show inside those Pearly Gates.”
Fans across various “Dukes of Hazzard” fan pages echoed Jonesâ sentiments, sharing memories of Hurst’s warmth, humor, and dedication to his supporters.
“To fans, he was more than a characterâhe was family,” one fan page posted on Instagram. “Rickâs passing is a profound loss, but his memory will forever ride shotgun in the hearts of those who grew up watching him, laughing with him, and loving him. Rest easy, Rick. You made the world a little lighter.”
Hurst joined the cast of “The Dukes of Hazzard” during its second season and remained a memorable part of the show’s Southern charm and slapstick humor. Though decades have passed since the series aired its final episode, the bonds formed on and off screen remain as strong as ever, evident in the outpouring of love following Hurst’s passing.
As fans continue to celebrate his contributions, both comedic and personal, Hurst is remembered not just as Deputy Cletus Hogg, but as a beloved friend, actor, and light in the lives of many.
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