Actor Rick Hurst, best known for his role as Deputy Cletus Hogg in "The Dukes of Hazzard," has died at age 79.Here’s a comprehensive look at the life and career of Rick Hurst—a talented actor, beloved colleague, and cherished presence in American entertainment:
Early Life & Education
Born Richard Douglas Hurst on January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas, Hurst discovered his flair for performance early. After graduating high school, he earned a BA in psychology and theatre from Tulane University (1968) and then pursued an MFA in acting at Temple University (1970), studying under the notable drama instructor Cecil Pickett.
Television Beginnings
In the early 1970s, Hurst entered the world of television with guest spots on popular series like The Doris Day Show, Sanford and Son, and The Partridge Family. His comedic timing and amiable presence quickly made him a reliable character actor in Hollywood.
Breakthrough: The Dukes of Hazzard
In 1979, Hurst landed the role that would define his career: Deputy Cletus Hogg, Boss Hogg’s bumbling but well-meaning cousin, on the hit CBS series The Dukes of Hazzard. He appeared in 55 episodes from 1979 to 1982, and later returned for the reunion TV movies The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion! (1997) and Hazzard in Hollywood (2000).
Colleagues and fans remember Cletus as a lovable character whose comedic flair illuminated the show. Co-star Ben Jones (Cooter) described Hurst as possessing “a heart as big as Texas” and “a fine actor, a splendid comic, and a wonderfully supportive colleague.” He added that everything “just clicked” when Hurst joined the cast.
Later Work & Personal Touch
Beyond Hazzard, Hurst maintained a steady presence across television and film. Highlights include appearances on Gunsmoke, MASH*, Happy Days, Little House on the Prairie, The Bob Newhart Show, and Murder, She Wrote. His film roles spanned Earth Girls Are Easy (1988), Steel Magnolias (1989), The Karate Kid Part III (1989), In the Line of Fire, and Return of the Killer Shrews (2012)
Known for his warmth, Hurst regularly participated in fan conventions and events at venues like Cooter’s Place in Nashville, Gatlinburg, and Pigeon Forge. His dedication to fans spoke volumes about his generosity and humility.
Family & Legacy
Rick Hurst had two sons. Ryan Hurst, his elder, is a well-known actor featured in Sons of Anarchy, Remember the Titans, and The Walking Dead. His younger son is Collin Hurst.
Rick was married twice—first to Candace Kaniecki (1969–1979), then to Katherine Shelly Weir (1981–1991).
Final Days & Passing
On June 26, 2025, Hurst passed away suddenly in Los Angeles at the age of 79. His first wife Candace revealed the death was unexpected, and no cause has been announced.
His passing came just before a planned July appearance at Cooter’s Place fan event.
Tributes poured in from fans and co-stars alike. Ben Jones reflected, “I have known Rick for over 45 years … he didn’t leave me smiling or laughing.” John Schneider (Bo Duke) wrote:
“You were a remarkable force for humanity, sanity and comedy … Heaven is a safer and more organized place with you in it.”
Why He Mattered
Rick Hurst’s legacy lies in his genuine warmth, comedic talent, and the joy he shared both on screen and off. As Cletus Hogg, he became part of many childhood memories and long-lasting nostalgia. Off-camera, he was a generous spirit, deeply engaged with fans and colleagues. His legacy continues through his memorable performances and through his son Ryan, now carrying the family’s acting tradition forward.
Rick Hurst will be remembered not just as Deputy Cletus Hogg, but as a warm-hearted performer whose laughter and kindness left an indelible mark on audiences across generations.
Source: Some or all of the content was generated using an AI language model
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