'Dukes of Hazzard' star Rick Hurst breathes his last at 79

Devastating news has emerged as beloved actor Rick Hurst, best known for his iconic role as Deputy Cletus Hogg on the 1980s series The Dukes of Hazzard, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 26.

The renowned actor was 79 years old at the time of his passing.

Rick’s first wife, Candace Kanieck, confirmed the sad news to TMZ.

"To fans, he was more than a character — he was family," read a heartfelt post on The Dukes of Hazzard's official Instagram page.

"His gentle smile, impeccable comedic timing and kind-hearted spirit made every scene brighter," the statement continued, adding, "Offscreen, Rick was known for his generosity, humility and love for connecting with fans at events across the country."

"Whether it was a reunion special or a meet-and-greet at Cooter’s, he never stopped sharing his joy with the people who adored him," the statement concluded.

Rick’s breakthrough came with The Dukes of Hazzard, where he starred for three seasons from 1980 to 1983.

He later reprised his role in two reunion films, The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion!(1997) and The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood (2000).

Moreover, Rick Hurst’s illustrious career also included appearances in The Karate Kid Part III, Happy Days, Highway to Heaven, Little House on the Prairie, M*A*S*H, Evening Shade, and The Bob Newhart Show.