Rick Hurst, who played Deputy Cletus on 'The Dukes of Hazzard', dead at 79

Rick Hurst, known for playing Deputy Cletus Hogg on The Dukes of Hazzard, has passed away unexpectedly at the age of 79 on June 26, 2025. The cause of his death has not been disclosed yet.

As Forbes reported, his first wife, Candace Kaniecki, confirmed his death in a statement. She wrote:

“We’re heartbroken to announce that Rick Hurst, Cletus, has passed away. He was so kind to me when I visited the reunion sets and whenever we saw him at events. Please share your memories and keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.”

According to the outlet, Rick Hurst appeared in the 1979-1982 seasons of The Dukes of Hazzard. He is also known for his work in several TV movies, including The Dukes of Hazzard Reunion in 1997 and The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood in 2002. Friends, family, and co-stars are flooding in with tributes for the actor.

Tributes pour in as Rick Hurst passes away

The veteran actor has been remembered by his fans, colleagues, and friends. His co-actor took to Facebook to announce his death as he paid him an emotional tribute. He wrote:

“It doesn't seem right that Rick Hurst passed away this afternoon. When something so unexpected happens, it is "harder to process", as the current expression goes. I have known Rick for over 45 years and there wasn't a minute of that time that he didn't leave me smiling or laughing. Sure he was a professional comedian, but mostly he just had a heart as big as Texas. He was a fine actor, a splendid comic, and a wonderfully supportive colleague.”

“Very sad news. Our great friend Rick Hurst has passed away. Please pray for his family. We will miss you Cletus!” A user wrote on X.

“Over the years I became good friends with Rick Hurst. I feel very fortunate that he considered me a friend. I'll cherish the memories of the time I got to spend with Cletus Hogg.” Another person added.

“Sad news - Rick Hurdt aka Cletus from Dukes of Hazzard has passed away. What a legend - happy to have met him during my reign” One person said.

“Rest in peace, Rick Hurst. Thank you for the endless hours of entertaining pursits w Rosco and Boss Hogg.” A person commented.

“Very sad news. Our great friend Rick Hurst has passed away. Please pray for his family. We will miss you Cletus!” One more wrote.

He reportedly made his on-screen debut in 1971 on an episode of The Doris Day Show. In the following years, he appeared in Sanford and Son and The Partridge Family, and later in The Unholy Rollers.

Trending

Rick Hurst was first married to Candace Kaniecki from 1969 to 1979. They welcomed a son, Ryan Hurst, who is also a successful actor. He is known for his roles in 'Remember the Titans' and 'Sons of Anarchy.'

After his separation from his first wife, Hurst married Katherine Shelley Weir. They were together from 1981 to 1991 and had a son named Collin Hurst, as reported by Mabumbe. Despite his failed marriages, Rick Hurst has always supported his sons in their careers and maintained a close relationship with them.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback