‘Dukes of Hazzard’ Mourns the Loss of Rick Hurst.
Fans of The Dukes of Hazzard are heartbroken after learning of Rick Hurst’s sudden passing. The beloved actor, best known for playing the cheerful Deputy Cletus Hogg, died at 79.
Sudden and Heartbreaking News
Hurst’s wife, Candace Kaniecki, confirmed his death to TMZ. He passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, just days before a scheduled fan appearance at Cooter’s Place—a Dukes of Hazzard-themed museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Originally, the museum postponed the event due to “unforeseen circumstances.” However, the Nashville location later posted a touching tribute to Hurst. His wife noted that the cause of death remains unknown.Humble Beginnings and Rising Stardom
Born on January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas, Rick Hurst pursued education passionately. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Tulane University in 1968, followed by a Master of Fine Arts from Temple University in 1970.
Hurst joined The Dukes of Hazzard in 1979 and quickly won over fans. As Deputy Cletus Hogg—cousin to the infamous Boss Hogg—he brought comic relief and heart to Hazzard County.
A Memorable Role in a Legendary Series
Initially a recurring character, Hurst stepped into a lead role during Season 3 after Sonny Shroyer left to star in the spin-off Enos. When Shroyer returned in 1982, Hurst shifted back to guest appearances before ultimately leaving the show.
Despite cast changes, the Dukes team stayed close. “We’re a family still, after all these years, which is very unusual,” co-star John Schneider shared in a 2014 interview. “The Dukes of Hazzard hasn’t ended for the fans—or for us.”

W Actor Ryan Hurst, girlfriend Molly Cookson, Rick Hurst attend the “We Were Soldiers” premiere in 2002 / Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images
Cletus’s Legacy and Beyond
Hurst’s role grew from a sidekick to a fan favorite. He later reprised his character in The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion! (1997) and Hazzard in Hollywood (2000), cementing his legacy in the franchise.
His career extended far beyond Hazzard. He appeared in classic shows like Happy Days, Little House on the Prairie, Sanford and Son, MASH, and The Blue Knight. He also starred in Amanda’s, Bea Arthur’s short-lived sitcom before The Golden Girls.
Big Screen Appearances
Hurst’s film career included roles in Executive Action (1973), The Cat From Outer Space (1978), The Karate Kid trilogy, Steel Magnolias (1989), and In The Line Of Fire (1993). His mix of warmth and comic timing made him a standout on both TV and film.