Rick Hurst, best known for playing Deputy Cletus Hogg on The Dukes of Hazzard, has died at 79. His wife, Candace Kaniecki, confirmed he passed away suddenly, just a week before a scheduled fan event at Cooter’s Place in Tennessee. The cause of death is unknown. Hurst joined the show in 1979 and became a fan favorite for his comedic role as Cletus, cousin to Boss Hogg. Though his role shifted over the seasons, his bond with the cast remained strong.

“We’re a family still,” co-star John Schneider said in a past interview. Beyond The Dukes, Hurst appeared in Happy Days, MASH, The Karate Kid films, Steel Magnolias, and more.

He also reunited with the cast for TV movie sequels in the late ’90s and early 2000s. Rick is survived by his wife and son, actor Ryan Hurst (Sons of Anarchy, Remember the Titans).

Fans remember Rick not just for his humor, but for being part of a show that continues to bring joy across generations.

Rest in peace, Deputy Cletus.