Breaking News: Rick Hurst, Deputy Cletus Hogg, Dies at 79
July 2, 2025 – The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Rick Hurst, a beloved character actor known for his role as Deputy Cletus Hogg in the cult classic series “A Duke rarely comes alone.” Hurst passed away on June 26, 2025, at the age of 79. The news was confirmed by the “Cooter’s Place Museum” in Tennessee, where Hurst had to cancel a planned appearance at short notice.
Rick Hurst: A Career Full of Unforgettable Moments
Born on January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas, Rick Hurst began his acting career in the early 1970s. After studying at Tulane University and earning a Master of Fine Arts from Temple University, he made his mark on the stage before transitioning to television. Hurst’s first TV appearances included roles in “The Partridge Family,” “Gunsmoke,” “Kojak,” and “Our little farm.”
The Breakthrough Role
Hurst’s big breakthrough came in 1980 when he landed the role of Deputy Cletus Hogg in “A Duke rarely comes alone.” As the cousin of the corrupt county boss JD Hogg, Cletus quickly became a fan favorite with his blend of chaos and charm. Hurst appeared in 46 episodes of the action comedy series until 1983 and reprised his role for reunion films in 1997 and 2000.
Beyond “A Duke rarely comes alone”
Beyond his iconic role, Hurst’s career spanned numerous films and TV series. He appeared in movies like “Karate Kid III,” “Magnolia from Stahl,” and “In The Line of Fire.” His TV credits include shows such as “Melrose Place,” “Chips,” “Murder is her hobby,” and “An angel on earth.” In 1975, he played the lead role in the short-lived ABC sitcom “On the Rocks.”
Remembering Rick Hurst
Ben Jones, who played Cooter Davenport in “A Duke rarely comes alone” and now operates the “Cooter’s Place Museum,” paid tribute to his longtime colleague: “I knew Rick for over 45 years, and there was no minute during this time when he didn’t make me smile or laugh. He was not only a professional comedian but also had a heart as big as Texas. He was an excellent actor, a great comedian, and a wonderfully supportive colleague.”
Legacy Lives On
With Rick Hurst’s passing, the television world loses a warm character actor whose legacy will live on through his unforgettable roles. The streets of Hazzard County will feel a little emptier without Deputy Cletus. Hurst’s contribution to the entertainment industry will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come.
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