Overview

• Ben Jones confirmed Hurst’s unexpected death on June 26 via the Cooter’s Place museum’s Facebook page, stating the actor was 79 and brought laughter to colleagues for over 45 years.
• Candace Kaniecki, Hurst’s first wife, said he died unexpectedly in Los Angeles and that the cause of death remains undisclosed.
• Fellow cast members including John Schneider have shared heartfelt tributes, highlighting Hurst’s generous spirit and comedic talent.
• Hurst was due to appear at the Cooter’s Place fan event in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, from July 3–7, but the visit has been postponed with plans to reschedule.
• Over a four-decade career, Hurst guest-starred on series like M*A*S*H and Little House on the Prairie, and became a fan favorite as Deputy Cletus Hogg from 1979 to 1985, later reprising the role in two CBS TV movies.