Beloved TV Actor Remembered for Role as Deputy Cletus Hogg
Hollywood has lost another legend.
Richard “Rick” Hurst, the actor best known for playing lovable Deputy Cletus Hogg on the classic TV hit The Dukes of Hazzard, has passed away at the age of 79.
His ex-wife, Candace Kaniecki, confirmed the news to TMZ, revealing that Rick died unexpectedly on Thursday in Los Angeles. The cause of death remains unknown at this time.
📺 A Face of Classic TV
For fans of late-’70s and early-’80s television, Rick Hurst was a familiar and beloved face. He made his first appearance as Cletus, the cousin of Boss Hogg, during the original run of The Dukes of Hazzard and reprised the role several times throughout the series’ popularity in the 1980s.
His character’s goofy charm, paired with slapstick Southern humor, helped define the heart and humor of the show for a generation.
🎬 Beyond Hazzard County
But Rick’s acting career stretched far beyond The Dukes of Hazzard.
He built an impressive résumé that included appearances on some of the most iconic shows of the 20th century, such as:
- Sanford and Son
- The Partridge Family
- MASH*
- Gunsmoke
- The Bob Newhart Show
On the silver screen, he made memorable appearances in films like “The Cat from Outer Space” and Mel Brooks’ classic “History of the World: Part I.”
👨👦 A Father to Another Star
Rick Hurst’s legacy continues through his son, Ryan Hurst, a successful actor in his own right. Ryan is best known for his role as Opie Winston on FX’s Sons of Anarchy, as well as memorable parts in Remember the Titans, The Walking Dead, and Outsiders.
Fans have long admired the bond between father and son, both respected figures in the world of film and television.
🗓️ Last-Minute Cancellation Raised Concerns
Rick was scheduled to make an appearance on July 3rd at Cooter’s Place, a Dukes of Hazzard museum and fan attraction in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The museum shared on Facebook Thursday morning that Rick wouldn’t be attending “due to unforeseen circumstances,” promising to reschedule his visit.
Just hours later, the tragic news of his passing surfaced.
🙏 Remembering Rick Hurst
Fans and fellow actors have begun paying tribute to the actor on social media, sharing their favorite moments from The Dukes of Hazzard and remembering Rick’s warm presence and comedic timing.
“Rest in peace, Deputy Cletus. You brought joy and laughter to millions.”
“One of the true faces of feel-good, family television. We’ll never forget you.”
📢 Final Thoughts
Rick Hurst brought heart and humor to every role he touched, making him a staple of American television’s golden era. From the backroads of Hazzard County to the bright lights of Hollywood, his impact is undeniable.
He is survived by his son Ryan Hurst, family, and countless fans around the world.
🕊️ Rest in peace, Rick Hurst. Your laughter lives on.
💬 Share your favorite memory of Deputy Cletus Hogg in the comments.
📲 Stay tuned to The Pop Radar (TPR) for more tributes to the stars we love and lose.
