American actor Rick Hurst aka Richard Douglas Hurst died on June 26, 2025, at the age of 79. Rick Hurst was most famous for his role on television favourite The Dukes of Hazzard, a show that ran on the CBS channel from 1980 to 1983 in the US for seven seasons. He portrayed Deputy Cletus Hogg, who is the cousin of Boss Hogg, the commissioner of Hazzard County and the main antagonist of the show. Apart from the main series, Rick Hurst was also part of the cast of the two made-for-television action-adventure films based on the show, titled The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion! (1997) and The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood (2000). Jack Betts Dies: ‘Spider-Man’ Actor Passes Away at 96 in California.

Tribute to Rick Hurst by 'The Dukes of Hazzard' Team

The Dukes of Hazzard team posted a moving tribute to Rick Hurst on Instagram. The message read, "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." Val Kilmer, ‘Batman Forever’ and ‘Top Gun’ Star, Dies at 65 Due to Pneumonia.

Rick Hurst Passes Away at 79 - See Tribute Post:

Rick Hurst Personal Life and Family

Rick Hurst was born on January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas, USA. Rick Hurst was married to Candace Kaniecki from 1969–1979, with whom he has a son, Ryan Hurst, also an actor. Rick Hurst later married Katherine Shelley Weir in 1981 and the marriage lasted until 1991. Ryan Hurst, known for his role in Sons of Anarchy, adopted the name Gobind Seva Singh after he converted to Sikhism. Ryan Hurst posted a heartfelt note after his father's demise, consisting of quotes attributed to Gautam Buddha, Sigmund Freud, Stephen Hawking and David Hume. He said on Instagram, "Buddha – You Are What You Are Not Clinging To. Freud – You Are What You Hide. Hawking – You Are What You Can Predict. Hume – [Flatly] You Are What You Cannot Prove. [Silence. They Each Sip Tea. Somewhere, A Quark Changes Spin.] Fade Out.”

Ryan Hurst Posts Message on Instagram Post Father Rick Hurst's Death - See Post:

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 27, 2025 03:01 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).