The entertainment world is reeling from the sudden loss of Richard Hurst, a beloved actor best known for his role as Deputy Cletus Hogg in The Dukes of Hazzard. On June 26, 2025, Hurst passed away unexpectedly in Los Angeles at the age of 79, leaving behind a legacy that touched the hearts of fans worldwide. His warm smile, impeccable comedic timing, and genuine kindness made him a standout figure in the iconic TV series that defined an era. This article dives into the latest developments surrounding Richard Hurst’s passing, his impactful career, and the outpouring of tributes from fans and co-stars alike.
A Legendary Role in Hazzard County
Richard Hurst’s portrayal of Deputy Cletus Hogg in The Dukes of Hazzard cemented his place in television history. The show, which aired from 1979 to 1985, followed the adventures of the Duke cousins in rural Hazzard County, Georgia. Hurst joined the cast in 1979, playing the bumbling yet lovable deputy and cousin to the villainous Boss Hogg. His character often found himself in hilarious predicaments, chasing the Duke boys in their iconic General Lee, only to end up in a pond or tangled in his own schemes. Hurst appeared in 55 episodes, bringing charm and humor to the role until 1983. He later reprised Cletus in two reunion specials, The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion! (1997) and The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood (2000).
Hurst’s ability to blend comedy with heart made Cletus a fan favorite. His scenes, often filled with slapstick humor and good-natured antics, resonated with audiences who grew up watching the show. The news of his passing has sparked an outpouring of nostalgia, with fans sharing memories of his iconic car chases and warm onscreen presence.
A Career Beyond Hazzard
While The Dukes of Hazzard was his most prominent role, Richard Hurst’s career spanned over five decades. Born on January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas, Hurst developed a passion for acting early on. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Tulane University in 1968 and a Master of Fine Arts from Temple University in 1970. His first onscreen appearance came in 1971 on The Doris Day Show, marking the start of a prolific career. Throughout the 1970s, he landed guest roles on hit shows like Sanford and Son, The Partridge Family, MASH*, Gunsmoke, and The Bob Newhart Show.
Hurst also made his mark on the big screen, appearing in films such as The Cat from Outer Space (1978), Steel Magnolias (1989), The Karate Kid Part III (1989), and In the Line of Fire (1993). In the 1980s, he starred in the short-lived sitcom Amanda’s, an American adaptation of Fawlty Towers. Later, he took on guest roles in popular series like Murder, She Wrote, The Wonder Years, Family Matters, and Melrose Place. His versatility and knack for comedy made him a sought-after character actor.
The Unexpected Loss
The news of Richard Hurst’s death came as a shock to fans and colleagues. His first wife, Candace Kaniecki, confirmed the passing, noting it was unexpected. Hurst was set to appear at Cooter’s Place, a Dukes of Hazzard-themed museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, on July 3, 2025. The venue announced the cancellation of his appearance due to “unforeseen circumstances” just hours before his death was made public. The cause of death remains undisclosed, adding to the sense of sudden loss felt by those who knew him.
Cooter’s Place shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, calling Hurst “more than a character — he was family.” The post highlighted his gentle smile and kind spirit, which endeared him to fans at conventions and events. Hurst was a regular at Dukes of Hazzard gatherings, where he connected with fans, signed autographs, and shared stories from the set. His warmth and accessibility made him a beloved figure in the “Hazzard Nation” community.
- Role and Legacy: Richard Hurst played Deputy Cletus Hogg in 55 episodes of The Dukes of Hazzard (1979–1983) and two reunion specials (1997, 2000).
- Career Highlights: Hurst appeared in numerous TV shows (MASH*, Sanford and Son) and films (Steel Magnolias, The Karate Kid Part III).
- Sudden Passing: Hurst died unexpectedly on June 26, 2025, in Los Angeles at age 79; the cause of death is unknown.
- Fan Event Cancellation: He was scheduled to appear at Cooter’s Place in Tennessee on July 3, 2025.
- Tributes: Co-stars and fans mourn his loss, praising his kindness and comedic talent.
Tributes from Co-Stars and Fans
The Dukes of Hazzard cast and crew have been vocal in their grief. John Schneider, who played Bo Duke, shared a touching tribute on social media, calling Hurst a “remarkable force for humanity, sanity, and comedy.” Ben Jones, known as Cooter Davenport, wrote a heartfelt Facebook post, imagining Hurst reuniting with co-stars like James Best and Sorrell Booke in heaven, putting on “the funniest show inside those Pearly Gates.” Jones emphasized Hurst’s ability to make people smile, noting that his legacy lives on through the show’s global reruns.
Fans have flooded social media with memories, sharing photos from meet-and-greets and clips of Hurst’s funniest moments as Cletus. One Reddit user described him as “the heart of Hazzard County,” while another recalled how his scenes “made the seasons fun.” The outpouring reflects the deep connection fans felt with Hurst, whose down-to-earth nature shone both on and off the screen.
A Lasting Legacy
Richard Hurst’s impact on The Dukes of Hazzard and beyond cannot be overstated. His role as Cletus brought joy to millions, and his career showcased a talent that spanned genres and decades. At the time of his passing, his net worth was estimated at $500,000, earned through acting, commercials, and fan conventions. Hurst is survived by his son, Ryan Hurst, an actor known for roles in Sons of Anarchy and Remember the Titans. The father-son duo shared a passion for the craft, with Ryan carrying forward the family’s acting legacy.
The Dukes of Hazzard remains a cultural touchstone, with its blend of action, comedy, and Southern charm. Hurst’s contribution to the show helped make it a global phenomenon, still enjoyed in reruns today. His ability to bring humor and humanity to Cletus ensured the character’s place in TV history.
Remembering a Gentle Soul
As the news of Richard Hurst’s passing spreads, fans and colleagues continue to celebrate his life. His work in The Dukes of Hazzard introduced him to generations of viewers, but it was his kindness that left a lasting impression. Whether he was crashing a patrol car onscreen or greeting fans at Cooter’s Place, Hurst embodied the spirit of Hazzard County. His loss is deeply felt, but his performances will keep audiences laughing for years to come.
Share your favorite Richard Hurst Dukes of Hazzard moment in the comments below, and join us in honoring his incredible legacy.