LOS ANGELES — Rick Hurst, the actor cherished for his portrayal of Deputy Cletus Hogg on the classic television series The Dukes of Hazzard, passed away unexpectedly on June 26, 2025, in Los Angeles at the age of 79. His death was confirmed by Cooter’s Place, a museum dedicated to the show, where Hurst was scheduled to appear for a fan event just days later.
Born Richard Douglas Hurst on January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas, he pursued higher education at Tulane University and later earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from Temple University. Hurst’s acting career commenced in the early 1970s with guest roles on popular television series such as The Doris Day Show, Happy Days, and Gunsmoke.
Hurst gained widespread recognition for his role as Deputy Cletus Hogg, the bumbling yet endearing cousin of Boss Hogg, on The Dukes of Hazzard. He appeared in 55 episodes between 1979 and 1982 and reprised the role in two reunion films: The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion! (1997) and The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood (2000). His character’s comedic misadventures and heartfelt moments endeared him to audiences nationwide.
Beyond The Dukes of Hazzard, Hurst’s versatile acting skills were showcased in various film and television roles. His film credits include Steel Magnolias (1989), In the Line of Fire (1993), and The Karate Kid Part III (1989). On television, he made appearances in series such as Murder, She Wrote, Family Matters, and Melrose Place.
Hurst remained actively engaged with fans of The Dukes of Hazzard, frequently attending conventions and events celebrating the show’s legacy. He was scheduled to appear at Cooter’s Place in Tennessee on July 3, 2025, but the event was canceled due to his sudden passing.
Tributes poured in from colleagues and fans alike. Ben Jones, co-star and co-owner of Cooter’s Place, expressed his sorrow on social media, stating, “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 further praised Hurst’s character, saying, “He was a fine actor, a splendid comic, and a wonderful … .”
John Schneider, who played Bo Duke on *The Dukes of Hazz … *, also paid homage to Hurst, describing him as a “remarkable force for humanity, sanity, and comedy.”
Hurst is survived by his sons, Ryan and Collin. Ryan Hurst has followed in his father’s footsteps, establishing a successful acting career with notable roles in Sons of Anarchy, Bates Motel, and The Walking Dead. He is also known for his performances in films like Saving Private Ryan and We Were Soldiers.
Rick Hurst’s legacy as a talented actor and beloved figure in the entertainment industry will continue to be celebrated by fans and peers who cherished his contributions to television and film.
