When did Rick Hurst make his onscreen debut? Career explored as The Dukes of Hazzard star dies at 79

Actor Rick Hurst recently passed away at the age of 79 on June 26, 2025, in Los Angeles. His death has come as a shock to his fans and family, who have not disclosed the cause of his demise.

He was well-known for portraying Deputy Clutus Hogg, who was Bogg Hogg’s cousin on The Dukes of Hazzard, reportedly during the seasons that aired from 1979 to 1982. He reportedly made his onscreen debut on The Doris Day Show in 1971.

His death was confirmed by his first wife, Candace Kaniecki, who said it was unexpected. The Instagram account of The Dukes of Hazzard also confirmed the news. They wrote:

“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.”

Rick Hurst’s passing has highlighted his distinguished career, notably his portrayal of Deputy Cletus Hogg in the beloved series The Dukes of Hazzard, which remains a fan favorite.

Continue to read more.

Exploring the career of the Dukes of Hazzard actor Rick Hurst

According to his IMDb profile, Rick Hurst was born on January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas, US. His real name was Richard Douglas Hurt. His first onscreen debut on The Doris Day Show in 1971 marked the start of a prolific career in television and film. In addition to his popular role in the 1979 film, The Dukes of Hazzard, he was also known for Steel Magnolias (1989) and In the Line of Fire (1993).

Mabumbe stated that Hurst studied a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Theatre and graduated from Tulane University in 1968. He then earned his Master of Fine Arts in Acting from Temple University, graduating in 1970. Following his role in The Doris Day Show, he appeared in Sanford and Son and The Partridge Family, which helped him develop his career and opened doors to larger opportunities in the 1970s.

His other work credits included The Unholy Rollers, Gunsmoke, Happy Days, Little House on the Prairie, The Six Million Dollar Man, and M*A*S*H, according to a report in Deadline. His last acting credit was in 2016, in the TV short "Be My Guest," as reported by The Mirror US.

Trending

According to a report in the same outlet, Hurst was scheduled to appear at Cooter's Place in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, from July 3 to July 7, 2025. Rick Hurst was married twice, first to Candace Kaniecki and then to Katherine Shelley Weir. He has two sons with them, Ryan Hurst and Collin Hurst.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback