On June 28, 2025, a replica of the iconic Dukes of Hazzard car, the General Lee, roared through the air over a fountain in Somerset, Kentucky, captivating thousands of spectators. This jaw-dropping stunt, performed at the Somernites Cruise festival, saw stunt driver Raymond Kohn launch the orange 1969 Dodge Charger 150 feet, recreating the high-flying action that made the Dukes of Hazzard a beloved TV show from 1979 to 1985. Videos of the event, shared across platforms like YouTube and Instagram, show the car soaring over the turquoise fountain, landing with a dramatic bounce that thrilled the massive crowd. This event, part of the festival’s 25th anniversary, brought nostalgic excitement to fans and introduced the Dukes of Hazzard car to a new generation.
A Spectacular Stunt with Historical Roots
The General Lee, a symbol of the Dukes of Hazzard car culture, has long been associated with daring jumps and high-speed chases. At the Somernites Cruise, Kohn, a seasoned stunt driver with the Northeast Ohio Dukes, executed his 30th jump in a General Lee replica. The car, a meticulously crafted 1969 Dodge Charger, raced down East Mt. Vernon Street at 50 miles per hour, hit a ramp, and flew over the Fountain Square. The landing was rough—losing a door and bumper—but Kohn emerged unscathed, much to the relief of the estimated 35,000 spectators. Social media clips captured the crowd’s cheers as the car splashed through the fountain’s spray, echoing the show’s signature stunts.
The event wasn’t just about the jump. Fans got to meet Dukes of Hazzard stars like John Schneider (Bo Duke) and Byron Cherry (Coy Duke), who signed autographs and shared stories. Cherry marveled at the show’s lasting impact, noting that even kids as young as three know the series. The stunt, dedicated to the late Rick Hurst (Deputy Cletus), who passed away days before, added an emotional layer to the day’s festivities.
Key Points Summary
- Event: Replica Dukes of Hazzard car jumped 150 feet over Somerset’s Fountain Square on June 28, 2025.
- Driver: Raymond Kohn, performing his 30th General Lee stunt.
- Crowd: Over 35,000 spectators at the Somernites Cruise festival.
- Stars Present: John Schneider and Byron Cherry met fans.
- Dedication: Stunt honored Rick Hurst, who died earlier that week.
The Legacy of the General Lee
The Dukes of Hazzard car, with its bright orange paint, “01” on the doors, and distinctive “Dixie” horn, remains a cultural icon. The Somerset jump highlighted its enduring appeal, despite controversies over the Confederate flag on its roof. Kohn emphasized the show’s family-friendly values, stating it promotes good triumphing over evil. He began performing these stunts in 2007, initially thinking it would be a one-time event. The popularity of the Dukes of Hazzard car kept him returning, with his longest jump reaching 217 feet. Each stunt requires months of preparation, with safety measures like roll cages and push bars added to the replica.
Videos on YouTube show the meticulous planning behind the Somerset jump. The Northeast Ohio Dukes, Kohn’s stunt team, spent months ensuring the car could withstand the impact. Despite the bumpy landing, which sent debris flying and nearly hit a cameraman, the event was a success. Organizers called it a historic moment for the festival, which runs from April to October each year.
Why the Dukes of Hazzard Car Still Captivates
The Dukes of Hazzard car resonates because it embodies freedom, rebellion, and nostalgia. For fans who grew up watching Bo and Luke Duke outsmart Sheriff Rosco, the General Lee is more than a car—it’s a character. The Somerset stunt tapped into this sentiment, drawing a diverse crowd from across Kentucky and beyond. Social media buzzed with clips and photos, with users on Instagram and X praising the “epic” tribute to the show. Some noted the near-miss with the cameraman, adding to the stunt’s wild reputation.
The event also showcased the Somernites Cruise’s ability to blend classic car culture with live entertainment. Festival director Keith Floyd described the jump as a highlight of the 25-year celebration, calling it an “epic” moment. For many, it was a chance to relive the 1980s, when the Dukes of Hazzard car dominated TV screens with its gravity-defying leaps.
A Nod to Nostalgia and Future Stunts
The Somerset jump proves the Dukes of Hazzard car still has a place in modern culture. While the show faced criticism in 2015, leading to its temporary removal from TV Land, fans argue its charm lies in its lighthearted storytelling. Kohn’s dedication to keeping the General Lee’s legacy alive through stunts ensures that new audiences discover the show. Plans for future jumps are already in discussion, with the Northeast Ohio Dukes teasing more events on their social media.
For now, the Somerset stunt remains a high point, with videos racking up views online. The Dukes of Hazzard car, with its bold jumps and unmistakable style, continues to inspire awe. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, the General Lee’s flight over the fountain is a reminder of the show’s timeless appeal.
Want to see the Dukes of Hazzard car in action? Check out the latest videos on YouTube or follow the Northeast Ohio Dukes on Instagram for updates on future stunts!