Back in Time Today
The world of television lost a true gem when Rick Hurst passed away at age 79. As the lovable Deputy Cletus Hogg on ‘The Dukes of Hazzard,’ Hurst created a character that made us laugh, smile, and feel like we were part of the Hazzard County family.
His warmth, comedic timing, and genuine personality left an indelible mark on American television and in the hearts of fans everywhere.
1. Deputy Cletus Hogg: A Beloved Comic Relief
Bumbling yet endearing, Rick Hurst’s portrayal of Deputy Cletus Hogg brought a special magic to The Dukes of Hazzard. His character’s earnest attempts to enforce Boss Hogg’s schemes always backfired in the most hilarious ways.
Fans adored how Cletus would invariably end up in a ditch or pond after another failed chase of the General Lee. The character’s signature “Oops!” moments became something viewers eagerly anticipated each episode.
What made Hurst’s performance remarkable was how he balanced comedy with heart, creating a deputy who was never the villain—just a lovable goofball doing his best in a county full of chaos.
2. A Late Addition That Felt Like Family
When Sonny Shroyer left to star in his own spinoff, the producers needed someone special to fill the deputy void. Enter Rick Hurst, whose Cletus Hogg stepped into the series and immediately felt like he’d been there all along.
Though he joined in season 2, many fans recall him as if he’d been part of the original cast. His chemistry with the ensemble was instantaneous—particularly his cat-and-mouse dynamic with the Duke boys.
Behind the scenes, castmates recall how Hurst required no adjustment period. “Rick just belonged in Hazzard County,” Catherine Bach once remarked, “like he’d been born and raised there.”
3. Scene-Stealer in “W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings”
Before donning the deputy badge, Hurst caught Hollywood’s attention in the 1975 Burt Reynolds film “W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings.” Despite limited screen time, his performance left an outsized impression on audiences and fellow actors alike.
Ben Jones (who played Cooter on Dukes) first spotted Hurst’s talent here, later saying he “stole every scene he was in.” The film showcased Hurst’s ability to command attention without overwhelming the story.
This early role revealed what would become his trademark—creating memorable characters regardless of screen time. Even Reynolds himself reportedly commented that Hurst “could make two lines feel like the best part of the movie.”
4. A Master of Warmth and Humor
Colleagues consistently described Rick’s humor as uniquely “heartfelt.” Unlike comedians who relied on sharp wit or sarcasm, Hurst’s comedy came from a place of genuine warmth that radiated through the screen.
At fan conventions, attendees would comment on how his real-life personality mirrored Cletus’s affable nature. One production assistant from Dukes recalled, “Rick could defuse tense moments on set with just a well-timed goofy face.”
His laugh was apparently contagious—once he started, the entire crew would follow. This natural ability to spread joy made him beloved both on and off camera, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie wherever he went.
5. A Familiar Face on ‘Steel Magnolias’
Though often remembered for his comedic work, Hurst demonstrated remarkable range in the beloved film ‘Steel Magnolias.’ His smaller but significant role showcased a more subdued side of his acting repertoire.
Amid a powerhouse cast including Sally Field and Julia Roberts, Hurst held his own with quiet dignity. The film’s director reportedly cast him specifically because he could convey authentic Southern gentility without caricature.
Many fans experienced a delightful surprise moment of recognition—”Hey, that’s Cletus!”—before appreciating how effectively he disappeared into this different character. This versatility proved Hurst was far more than just a one-note comedy actor.
6. He Was Supposed to Appear at Cooter’s Place
Fans were eagerly anticipating seeing Rick at the upcoming meet-and-greet at Cooter’s Place in Pigeon Forge. His sudden passing created a palpable absence that hit the Dukes community hard.
Event organizers shared that Hurst had been especially excited about this particular gathering. He had reportedly prepared special photos to sign and stories to share with longtime admirers.
The venue plans to honor him with a memorial display instead. Ben Jones announced they’ll create a special tribute corner featuring Hurst’s photos and memorabilia, allowing fans to leave messages and memories—a fitting tribute to someone who always made time for those who appreciated his work.
7. An Actor with a Texas-Sized Heart
“Rick had a heart as big as Texas,” Ben Jones famously remarked after Hurst’s passing. This wasn’t just flowery eulogy language—stories of Hurst’s extraordinary kindness circulated throughout his career.
Junior cast members from Dukes often recounted how Hurst would mentor newcomers, offering encouragement and practical advice. During one difficult shoot in sweltering Georgia heat, he reportedly gave up his air-conditioned trailer to an elderly background actor who was struggling.
His generosity extended beyond the set too. Without publicity, he regularly visited children’s hospitals in character as Cletus, bringing smiles to kids who needed them most. These quiet acts of compassion defined the man behind the badge.
8. Four Decades of Friendship
The 45-year friendship between Rick Hurst and Ben Jones speaks volumes about Rick’s character. Their bond began before Dukes and endured long after the cameras stopped rolling in Hazzard County.
Through industry ups and downs, family celebrations, and personal challenges, their connection remained unshakable. Fellow actors noted how rare such lasting Hollywood friendships are.
Jones shared that they spoke weekly, even during periods when both were busy with different projects. “Rick remembered every birthday, every anniversary,” Jones recalled in a recent tribute. “He’d call out of the blue just to check in—that was just who he was.” Their friendship stands as testament to Hurst’s loyalty and genuine interest in others’ lives.
9. Versatile Guest Star on Classic Sitcoms
Before and after his Dukes fame, Hurst graced numerous beloved television shows with his presence. His appearances on The Golden Girls, Murder, She Wrote, and Sanford and Son showcased his remarkable adaptability.
On Sanford and Son, he held his own against comedy legend Redd Foxx. The Golden Girls producers reportedly rewrote his guest role to give him more scenes after seeing his chemistry with Bea Arthur during the first table read.
What made Hurst special as a guest star was his chameleon-like ability to blend into each show’s unique rhythm while still bringing his distinctive charm. He never tried to steal focus—yet invariably became a memorable part of whatever show he visited.
10. Part of the CBS Comedy Boom
The late 1970s and early 1980s marked a golden era for CBS comedies, with Hurst standing tall among an extraordinary lineup of talent. This period gave us M*A*S*H, All in the Family, and The Jeffersons—with Dukes providing a different flavor of humor in the mix.
Network executives reportedly recognized Hurst’s contribution to their ratings dominance. His character helped Dukes appeal to viewers who might not otherwise watch an action-comedy about car chases and moonshine.
Television historians note how this era shaped American comedy for decades to come. Hurst’s physical comedy and timing influenced countless actors who grew up watching him chase the General Lee around Hazzard County’s dusty roads.
11. An LA Fixture in His Later Years
Though forever associated with Southern characters, Rick made Los Angeles his long-term home. Locals in his neighborhood knew him as the friendly, unassuming gentleman who’d chat with anyone.
Regular patrons at his favorite diner report he never pulled the celebrity card. “He’d wait for a table just like everyone else,” one waitress recalled. “And he tipped really well!”
Even as he aged, Hurst maintained connections to the entertainment industry, occasionally mentoring young comedic actors. One up-and-coming performer shared how Hurst once spent three hours helping him prepare for an audition, refusing any payment except a cup of coffee. This accessibility and generosity made him a beloved figure in his adopted city.
12. A Comic First, But a True Actor Always
“Professional comedian” was often how Hurst described himself, but those who worked with him recognized his deeper acting talents. His ability to find the humanity in even the most cartoonish characters set him apart from mere jokesters.
Directors praised his technical skills too. He could hit his marks perfectly while performing elaborate physical gags—no small feat when scenes involved diving away from speeding cars or falling into mud puddles.
Perhaps most impressively, Hurst could convey complex emotions through comedy. When Cletus felt disappointed or conflicted about following Boss Hogg’s orders, audiences genuinely felt for him. This layer of authenticity beneath the humor is what elevated his performances beyond simple slapstick.
13. He Left Smiles Until the Very End
Ben Jones’ touching observation that Rick “never stopped making people smile until this afternoon” encapsulates a life well-lived. Even during health challenges in his final years, Hurst maintained his signature optimism.
At his last public appearance—a small fan gathering just months ago—attendees reported he seemed genuinely delighted by each interaction. One fan recounted how Hurst spent extra time with her shy son, gradually drawing him out with gentle humor until the boy was laughing uncontrollably.
Hospital staff caring for him in his final days noted his kindness never wavered. One nurse shared that he insisted on learning everyone’s names and would ask about their families—still giving more than he received, right until the end.
14. Gone Too Soon, but Not Forgotten
At 79, Rick’s passing struck many as premature—largely because his vibrant spirit seemed ageless. His energy and enthusiasm at conventions belied his years, making his loss feel all the more sudden.
Fellow actors expressed shock, many noting they’d been planning future projects with him. Tom Wopat (Luke Duke) shared that he and Hurst had discussed a potential comedy tour together just weeks before his passing.
The outpouring of grief on social media revealed how deeply he touched fans across generations. Original viewers share the loss with their children and grandchildren who discovered Dukes through reruns. This cross-generational impact ensures his legacy will continue long after the initial mourning period.
15. Cletus Lives On in Hazzard—and Our Hearts
Through syndication, streaming services, and DVD collections, Deputy Cletus Hogg continues his eternal pursuit of those Duke boys. New generations discover his fumbling charm every day, ensuring Rick’s most famous character remains immortal.
Fan fiction writers have kept Cletus alive in hundreds of stories. One popular theory among fans imagines he eventually became sheriff after Rosco retired—finally getting the promotion his loyal service deserved.
At conventions, cosplayers regularly honor Hurst by dressing as Cletus. The character has become part of Americana—representing the good-hearted, slightly bumbling authority figure who’s more friend than foe. In this way, Rick Hurst’s legacy continues to bring joy long after the actor took his final bow.