Rick Hurst (born Richard Douglas Hurst on January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas) was an American actor best known for portraying Deputy Cletus Hogg on the television series The Dukes of Hazzard. He passed away unexpectedly on June 26, 2025, at the age of 79 in Los Angeles.
Hurst’s acting career spanned several decades, beginning in the early 1970s. He made his television debut in 1971 on The Doris Day Show and went on to appear in numerous popular series, including; Sanford and Son, The Partridge Family, MASH*, Gunsmoke, The Bob Newhart Show, Happy Days and more. His film credits include Steel Magnolias (1989), The Karate Kid Part III (1989), and Earth Girls Are Easy (1988).
Hurst’s most iconic role was as Deputy Cletus Hogg, the bumbling yet endearing cousin of Boss Hogg, on The Dukes of Hazzard. He appeared in 55 episodes of the series from 1979 to 1982 and reprised his role in two reunion films: The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion! (1997) and The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood (2000).
Hurst earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and theatre from Tulane University in 1968 and a Master of Fine Arts in acting from Temple University in 1970 . He was married to Shelly Weir from 1981 to 1991 and had two sons: Ryan Hurst, an actor known for his roles in Sons of Anarchy and The Walking Dead, and Collin Hurst.
Early Life and Education
Born Richard Douglas Hurst on January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas, Rick was the son of an aerospace engineer. He developed an early interest in acting, which led him to pursue formal education in the arts. Hurst attended Tulane University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and theatre in 1968. He further honed his craft by obtaining a Master of Fine Arts in acting from Temple University in 1970. Additionally, he studied under renowned drama teacher Cecil Pickett, who had a significant influence on his acting techniques.
Family and Personal Life
Rick Hurst was married twice. His first marriage was to Candace Kaniecki, an acting coach, from 1969 to 1979. They had one son together, Ryan Hurst, who followed in his father’s footsteps to become a successful actor known for his roles in Sons of Anarchy and The Walking Dead. In 1981, Hurst married Katherine Shelley Weir, with whom he had a son, Collin Hurst. The couple divorced in 1991.
Career Highlights
Early Career
Rick Hurst’s acting career began in the early 1970s with guest appearances on various television shows. He made his debut in 1971 on The Doris Day Show, followed by roles in Sanford and Son, The Partridge Family, Gunsmoke, Happy Days, and MASH*. His versatility allowed him to portray a wide range of characters, from police officers to comedic sidekicks.
Breakthrough Role: Deputy Cletus Hogg
Hurst’s most iconic role came in 1979 when he was cast as Deputy Cletus Hogg on The Dukes of Hazzard. The show, which aired on CBS from 1979 to 1985, followed the adventures of the Duke family in the fictional Hazzard County. Hurst’s portrayal of the bumbling yet lovable deputy endeared him to audiences, and he appeared in 55 episodes during the show’s original run. He later reprised his role in two reunion films: The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion! (1997) and The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood (2000).
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Film and Television Appearances
Beyond The Dukes of Hazzard, Hurst had a prolific career with numerous appearances in both television and film. He appeared in films such as Steel Magnolias (1989), The Karate Kid Part III (1989), and Earth Girls Are Easy (1988). His television credits include guest roles on The Wonder Years, Family Matters, Melrose Place, Murder, She Wrote, and The Bob Newhart Show. Hurst’s ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and drama showcased his range as an actor.
Final Years and Legacy
In his later years, Hurst remained active in the entertainment industry, making appearances at fan conventions and participating in reunion events for The Dukes of Hazzard. His final on-screen appearance was in the 2016 TV short B My Guest. Hurst’s contributions to the entertainment industry have left an enduring legacy, and he is remembered fondly by colleagues and fans alike.
Net Worth
At the time of his passing, Rick Hurst’s net worth was estimated at $500,000. While not as high as some of today’s TV stars, Hurst earned steadily over decades through guest roles, commercials, and regular appearances at fan conventions, particularly those linked to The Dukes of Hazzard.
Death and Cause
Rick Hurst passed away unexpectedly on June 26, 2025, at the age of 79 in Los Angeles. His death came as a surprise to his family and former colleagues, with plans for a public appearance on July 3rd canceled just hours before the announcement of his passing. The cause of death remains undisclosed.
Conclusion
Rick Hurst’s career spanned over four decades, during which he became a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. From his breakout role as Deputy Cletus Hogg to his extensive work in film and television, Hurst’s talent and charm endeared him to audiences worldwide. His legacy continues to inspire actors and fans alike, ensuring that his contributions to the world of entertainment will not be forgotten.
FAQs
What was Rick Hurst’s most famous role?
Rick Hurst is best known for his portrayal of Deputy Cletus Hogg on The Dukes of Hazzard.
When did Rick Hurst pass away?
Rick Hurst passed away on June 26, 2025, at the age of 79.
What other TV shows did Rick Hurst appear in?
Hurst appeared in shows like Sanford and Son, The Partridge Family, MASH*, Happy Days, Little House on the Prairie, The Wonder Years, Family Matters, and Melrose Place.
Did Rick Hurst appear in any films?
Yes, Hurst appeared in films such as Steel Magnolias, The Karate Kid Part III, and Earth Girls Are Easy.
Was Rick Hurst married?
Yes, Hurst was married twice: first to Candace Kaniecki and later to Katherine Shelley Weir.
Did Rick Hurst have children?
Yes, Hurst had two sons: Ryan Hurst, an actor known for roles in Sons of Anarchy and The Walking Dead, and Collin Hurst.
What was Rick Hurst’s educational background?
Hurst earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and theatre from Tulane University in 1968 and a Master of Fine Arts in acting from Temple University in 1970.
What was Rick Hurst’s cause of death?
The cause of Rick Hurst’s death has not been disclosed.
