Summary
Rick Hurst, born January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas, is a beloved American character actor best known for his role as Deputy Cletus Hogg on The Dukes of Hazzard. With a signature Southern charm and strong comedic timing, Hurst built a decades-long career in television, often playing lovable, goofy, and relatable roles. Beyond his breakout part in Dukes of Hazzard, he made memorable appearances in classics like MASH*, The Golden Girls, and The Bob Newhart Show. He also acted in a few films including Steel Magnolias and Sudden Impact. Father to actor Ryan Hurst, Rick enjoyed a modest but enduring career, with an estimated net worth of $500,000–$1 million. Though largely retired, his legacy as a dependable, feel-good presence on screen continues to resonate with fans of classic television.
Have you ever seen a familiar face on TV that instantly makes you smile? For many, Rick Hurst is that face. Known for his lovable and often hilarious roles on classic TV shows, especially The Dukes of Hazzard, Rick built a career as one of the most recognizable character actors in American television.
Let’s take a walk down memory lane as we explore Rick Hurst’s life and legacy—from his early days in Texas to his memorable moments on screen. This article dives deep into his personal life, career highs, and the charm that made audiences fall in love with him.
Early Life and Background
Rick Hurst was born Richard Douglas Hurst on January 1, 1946, in Houston, Texas. Growing up in the South, Rick was surrounded by storytelling, humor, and charm—elements that would later define his acting style.
He studied at the Dallas Theater Center before moving to New York to pursue his acting dream. Like many actors of his era, he started in small theatre productions, sharpening his comedic timing and on-stage presence.
Age and Birth Details
Rick Hurst is 79 years old as of 2025. His long life in the spotlight has made him a beloved figure across generations of TV viewers.
Height and Physical Features
Rick stood at approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm). He had a distinctive look—round-faced, often sporting a mustache—and that ever-charming Southern expression that brought his roles to life.
Family and Personal Life
Rick was married to Elaine Hurst, with whom he had children. While he largely kept his personal life private, he is known to have been a devoted family man. One of his sons, Ryan Hurst, followed in his footsteps and became a successful actor known for roles in Remember the Titans and Sons of Anarchy.
First Steps into Acting
Hurst started in theatre and took on small television roles in the late 1960s and early ’70s. He appeared in shows like:
- Sanford and Son
- Gunsmoke
- Happy Days
These roles often cast him as the good-natured side character, a niche he would soon make his own.
Breakthrough with The Dukes of Hazzard
Rick Hurst is best remembered for playing Deputy Cletus Hogg on The Dukes of Hazzard. His character—cousin to the bumbling Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane—was lovable, goofy, and always chasing after the Duke boys.
Though he joined the show in later seasons, his role quickly became a fan favorite. His comic timing and likability added warmth to the show’s action-packed, down-home vibe.
Other Major TV Appearances
Beyond Dukes of Hazzard, Rick appeared in many iconic TV series, including:
- The Bob Newhart Show
- MASH*
- Love, American Style
- The Golden Girls
He had a rare ability to light up a scene, even with just a few lines.
Roles in Film
Though primarily a TV actor, Rick Hurst also made appearances in films like:
- Steel Magnolias (1989)
- The Cat from Outer Space (1978)
- Sudden Impact (1983)
He often played the everyman—a relatable character who added a dose of authenticity to big-screen productions.
Typecast but Treasured
Some actors see typecasting as a trap, but Rick embraced it like an old pair of comfortable boots. Whether he played a sheriff, deputy, mechanic, or neighbor, he always brought a sense of heart to his performances.
Think of him as the Southern sidekick everyone wishes they had—dependable, funny, and sincere.
Awards and Recognition
While Rick never received major acting awards, his success lies in longevity and fan appreciation. He was a frequent guest at Dukes of Hazzard fan conventions and cherished by the show’s cult following.
Retirement and Later Appearances
Rick slowed down in the 2000s but continued to make appearances in reunion specials and small projects. His last known acting work included voice roles and fan-service cameos.
Net Worth and Earnings
As of his final years, Rick Hurst had an estimated net worth of around $500,000 to $1 million. Most of his earnings came from TV appearances, syndication royalties, and convention participation.
Influence on TV Character Acting
Rick paved the way for a style of acting that emphasized warmth over flash. In a world full of slick TV heroes, his characters were refreshingly down-to-earth. His approach has inspired younger actors to embrace roles that prioritize character depth and relatability.
Legacy in American Pop Culture
Though not always center stage, Rick Hurst holds a special place in American pop culture. His character from Dukes of Hazzard is still recognized today, decades after the show ended.
He proved that you don’t have to be the lead to leave a lasting impression—you just have to be memorable.
Final Years and Current Status
As of the latest updates, Rick Hurst has lived a quiet life away from the spotlight, occasionally appearing at fan events. While his screen appearances have slowed, his legacy endures through reruns, streaming, and the memories of fans who grew up watching him.
Conclusion
Rick Hurst may not have been the loudest voice in the room, but he always made sure his lines landed with heart. His contributions to television remind us that supporting characters are often the ones who steal the show.
In a career spanning decades, Rick Hurst became the friendly face audiences came to trust—proof that even in a world full of stars, there’s something special about the ones who simply shine with consistency.
Also Read : Chynna Phillips Biography: Age, Height, Weight & More
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Rick Hurst best known for?
He is best known for his role as Deputy Cletus Hogg in The Dukes of Hazzard.
2. Is Rick Hurst still alive?
As of 2025, Rick Hurst is reported to be living a private life away from the entertainment industry.
3. Who is Rick Hurst’s son?
His son is Ryan Hurst, an actor known for Sons of Anarchy and Remember the Titans.
4. What shows did Rick Hurst appear in besides Dukes of Hazzard?
He appeared in Sanford and Son, MASH*, The Golden Girls, The Bob Newhart Show, and many more.
5. What was Rick Hurst’s net worth?
His estimated net worth was between $500,000 and $1 million, based on various TV roles and public appearances.
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