‘Dukes of Hazzard’ Actor Ben Jones Passes Away at 84

Ben Jones, known for his role as Cooter Davenport in ‘The Dukes of Hazzard,’ has died at the age of 84. His wife, Alma Viator, confirmed that Jones experienced a heart attack at their home in Washington, Virginia, while waiting to watch a baseball game. The couple, married since 1992, shared their life and love deeply. Jones’ passing was also confirmed by Rappahannock County Sheriff Connie Compton.

Viator shared her loss on social media, expressing her deep affection for Jones and the enriching life they shared together. The post accompanied a photo of Ben with a dog, illustrating personal moments of joy he cherished.

Jones, born in Edgecombe County, North Carolina on August 30, 1941, began his career on stage. His film debut was in 1972’s ‘Together For Days’ as Douglas. He acted in ‘Moonrunners’ in 1975 and ‘The Lincoln Conspiracy’ in 1977. On television, Jones made his mark in the 1976 series ‘Movin’ On’ as a thief and appeared in ‘Nashville 99’ and ‘The Magical World of Disney’ in the following years.

His most famous role came when he was cast as Cooter Davenport in ‘The Dukes of Hazzard,’ which aired from 1979 to 1985. He reprised this character for the TV movies ‘The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion!’ in 1997 and ‘The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood’ in 2000. Jones’ last appeared on television in 2005 in ‘Surface,’ and his final film was ‘Unbreakable’ in 2021.

Aside from acting, Jones had a political career. He served two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Georgia’s fourth district from 1989 to 1993.

Tom Wopat, a fellow cast member from ‘The Dukes of Hazzard,’ paid tribute to Jones, recalling him as a valued friend and a staunch supporter of positive entertainment values. Wopat shared his thoughts both with Fox News Digital and on social media.

Whey Jennings, grandson of country music legend Waylon Jennings, also expressed his sorrow. Jennings valued Jones’ support, which included backing his first live album and shared his feelings of loss over Jones’ passing.

Jones described ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ as a show that embodied the values of America’s heartland, with humor, action, and a family-friendly approach. He emphasized how the good guys always prevailed. His contributions to entertainment and his support for fellow artists made a lasting impact on colleagues and fans alike.