Rick Hurst, Dukes of Hazzard Star, Dead at 79

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The Dukes of Hazzard community is in mourning.

Rick Hurst, known for portraying Deputy Cletus Hogg on the famous CBS series for five seasons, passed away on June 26 in Los Angeles. His former wife, Candace Kaniecki, confirmed this news to TMZ. He was 79 years old.

As a lifestyle connoisseur looking back on the past, I can share that I was once wedded to Hurst from the year 1969 up until 1979. Tragically, his demise came as an unexpected shock, and the precise reason behind it remains shrouded in mystery at this time.

Ben Jones, who starred alongside Hurst in the popular series “The Dukes of Hazzard”, officially confirmed his passing through a touching tribute shared by Cooter Place, the show’s museum, where he was due to make an appearance on July 3.

Jones wrote, “It feels wrong that Rick Hurst died this afternoon. When something unforeseen occurs, it becomes ‘harder to grasp’ or ‘more difficult to accept.’

For more than four decades, Rick has been a constant source of joy in my life, making me smile or laugh every single moment we’ve spent together. Not only was he a talented professional comedian, but his heart was as vast as the great state of Texas. He excelled as an actor, a comic, and a supportive colleague beyond measure.

The actor went on to explain that “everything clicked” when Hurst joined Dukes in 1979.

In my expert opinion, he blended seamlessly into the crowd and kept everyone chuckling right up until this very afternoon. And with the Dukes still entertaining crowds worldwide, his comedic charm is certain to persist, bringing laughter to our lives!

Following his portrayal of Depute Hogg until 1985, Hurst, who has two sons, Ryan Hurst, a well-known actor from the series “Sons of Anarchy,” and Collin Hurst, returned to his role in two TV movies based on “The Dukes” in 1997 and 2000. His other notable works include appearances on “The Bob Newhart Show,” “Happy Days,” “Little House on the Prairie,” and his first screen appearance, “The Doris Day Show.

Hurst, who was married to Katherine Shelley Weir from 1981 until 1991, is also fondly recalled by the recognized Dukes of Hazzard fan community.

Following his departure from the show in 1985 as Depute Hogg, Hurst (who has two sons, Ryan Hurst, an actor known for his work on Sons of Anarchy, and Collin Hurst) returned to his role in two Dukes TV films in 1997 and 2000. Other notable projects he worked on included The Bob Newhart Show, Happy Days, Little House on the Prairie, and his first screen appearance, The Doris Day Show.

Hurst, who was wedded to Katherine Shelley Weir from 1981 until 1991, is also fondly recalled on the recognized Dukes of Hazzard fan platform.

In this touching tribute, we bid farewell to Rick Hurst, the cherished actor who filled our screens with warmth, laughter, and an undeniable allure as Deputy Cletus Hogg in The Dukes of Hazzard. Tragically, he passed away today, leaving behind a lasting impact that transcends the boundaries of Hazzard County.

He wasn’t just a character to them; they saw him as one of their own,” continued the statement. “His warm smile, perfect comic delivery, and compassionate nature made each scene more vibrant. Behind the scenes, Rick was renowned for his generosity, humility, and genuine affection for interacting with fans at various gatherings nationwide. Whether it was a reunion event or a fan encounter at Cooter’s, he consistently spread his happiness among those who admired him.

The official page stated, ‘Rick’s departure leaves an immense void, yet his spirit remains a constant passenger in the hearts of those who spent their childhood with him, shared laughter, and cherished him. May you find peace, Rick. You brightened our world.’

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2025-06-27 16:17