‘Dukes of Hazzard’ Ster Richard Hurst Dead at 79

Richard Hurst – The best known as deputy Cletus Hogg on “The Dukes of Hazzard” – has died … TMZ has learned.

His first wife, Candace Kanieckitells TMZ … Rick died on Thursday in Los Angeles. She says that his death was unexpected and at the moment his cause of death is unclear.

Rick was planned to appear at Cooter’s Place, Pigeon Forge in Tennessee on July 3. On Thursday morning the museum on Facebook said because of unforeseen circumstances that Rick could not appear and they would plan again.

Fans of the classic TV series will remember the role of Rick as Boss Hogg’s cousin on “The Dukes of Hazzard”, a role that he first played in the late 1970s and overlooked during the 80s.

Rick achieved a long list of TV and film credits and appeared in shows such as “Sanford and Son”, “The Partridge Family”, “Mash*,” “Gunsmoke” and “The Bob Newhart Show.” On the big screen he appeared in classics such as “The Cat from Outer Space” and “History of the World: Part I.”

His son, actor Ryan Hurstis best known for its roles in “Sons of Anarchy” and “Remember the Titans.”

Rick was 79.