‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ Star Ben Jones Dies at 84

Aug 10, 2026

Ben Jones, the actor beloved by generations of television fans as Cooter Davenport on The Dukes of Hazzard, has died at the age of 84.

Jones died Sunday, August 9, after suffering a massive heart attack at his home, according to his wife, Alma Viator.

For millions of viewers, Jones will forever be remembered as Hazzard County mechanic Cooter Davenport, the good-natured friend of Bo and Luke Duke who was always ready to lend a hand — or help keep the General Lee running.

A Hazzard County Favorite

Jones appeared throughout the seven-season run of The Dukes of Hazzard, which aired on CBS from 1979 until 1985. The action-comedy became one of the defining television shows of its era, following cousins Bo and Luke Duke and their adventures throughout the fictional Hazzard County, Georgia.

As Cooter, Jones became an important member of the show’s ensemble alongside John Schneider, Tom Wopat, Catherine Bach, Denver Pyle, James Best and Sorrell Booke.

While he wasn’t technically a member of the Duke family, Cooter’s friendship and loyalty to the Dukes effectively made him an honorary Duke.

The character — and Jones himself — would remain closely associated with The Dukes of Hazzard long after the General Lee made its final jump on the original series.

From Hollywood to Congress

Jones’ career extended well beyond Hazzard County.

Before The Dukes of Hazzard, he appeared in films including Smokey and the Bandit, The Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars & Motor Kings and Moonrunners. The latter would become particularly significant, as the 1975 film helped inspire the television series that eventually became The Dukes of Hazzard.

Jones later made the unusual transition from television star to elected official.

He represented Georgia in the U.S. House of Representatives for two terms, serving from 1989 through 1993.

After leaving Congress, Jones returned to entertainment, appearing in films including Primary Colors and Meet Joe Black. He also returned to his most famous character for The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion! and The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood.

Keeping the Legacy Alive

Jones continued embracing the Dukes of Hazzard community throughout his later life.

He became closely associated with Cooter’s Place, a series of Dukes of Hazzard-themed museums and stores celebrating the television series and its fans. Locations have operated in Luray, Virginia; Nashville, Tennessee; and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

Through appearances, events and reunions, Jones remained connected with fans decades after the original series ended.

His death marks the loss of another major figure from one of television’s most recognizable shows.

For fans who grew up watching the Duke boys outrun Rosco, foil Boss Hogg and send the General Lee soaring through the air, Ben Jones wasn’t simply the mechanic who fixed their cars.

He was Cooter — and an essential part of Hazzard County.

Ben Jones was 84.