Rick Hurst died: American actor Rick Hurst died on June 26, 2025, at the age of 79 in Los Angeles, California, US. His death was announced by the Cooter’s Place museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
The Dukes of Hazzard shared a post on Instagram and wrote, “thedukesofhazzard_ With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to Rick Hurst, the beloved actor who brought warmth, humor, and unforgettable charm to the role of Deputy Cletus Hogg on The Dukes of Hazzard. Rick passed away today, leaving behind a legacy that stretches far beyond Hazzard County.”
“To fans, he was more than a character—he was family. His gentle smile, impeccable comedic timing, and kind-hearted spirit made every scene brighter. Off-screen, Rick was known for his generosity, humility, and love for connecting with fans at events across the country. Whether it was a reunion special or a meet-and-greet at Cooter’s, he never stopped sharing his joy with the people who adored him.”
“Rick’s passing is a profound loss, but his memory will forever ride shotgun in the hearts of those who grew up watching him, laughing with him, and loving him. Rest easy, Rick. You made the world a little lighter.”
He played the role of Deputy Cletus Hogg in the 1980 to 1983 seasons of The Dukes of Hazzard.
He also appeared in The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion! in 1997 and The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood in 2000.
His full name was Richard Douglas Hurst, and he was born on January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas, U.S.
In 1968, he completed a bachelor’s degree from Tulane University, and in 1970, he also completed a master’s in fine arts from Temple University.
He married Shelly Weir in 1981 and separated in 1991. They had a son named Collin Hurst.
He married a second time with Candace Kaniecki. They had a son named Ryan Hurst, who is also an actor, known for playing Gerry Bertier in Remember the Titans (2000) and Opie Winston in the FX drama series Sons of Anarchy (2008–2012).
He worked in around 74 television series and movies.
John Schneider wrote on Facebook, “I just this moment heard about the passing of dear Rick Hurst, a.k.a. Cletus Hogg.
You were a remarkable force for humanity, sanity, and comedy, my friend.
Heaven is a safer and more organized place with you in it.
We’ll keep the race going and people laughing until we meet again!”
Ben Jones wrote, “When something so unexpected happens, it is ‘harder to process’… He was a fine actor, a splendid comic, and a wonderfully supportive colleague… Hazzard Nation is sure going to miss Rick Hurst down here around ‘Cooter’s’, but his presence will always be near us.”
