Ben Jones, ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ Star, Passes Away at 84

Actor Ben Jones, known for his role as mechanic Cooter Davenport in “The Dukes of Hazzard,” has died at 84. Jones passed away at his home in Washington, Virginia, after a massive heart attack, as shared by his wife, Alma Viator, on social media. The couple had been married since 1992. Rappahannock County Sheriff Connie Compton also confirmed his passing.

Viator posted a heartfelt message on Facebook, expressing, “I lost the love of my life today. Ben passed from a massive heart attack. He was home resting in his favorite chair waiting for the Braves to come on and whoop the Yankees. Ben had the most amazing rich full life. He loved and was loved by so many. He will be missed. I love him so so much.” The post included a picture of Ben holding a dog.

Ben Jones was born in Edgecombe County, North Carolina, on August 30, 1941. His acting career began on stage before he debuted in films in 1972 with “Together For Days.” He appeared in “Moonrunners” in 1975 and “The Lincoln Conspiracy” in 1977. Jones made his television debut in 1976 in “Movin’ On,” and had roles in “Nashville 99” in 1977 and “The Magical World of Disney” in 1978.

His portrayal of Cooter Davenport in “The Dukes of Hazzard,” a role he played in over 140 episodes from 1979 to 1985, remains his most iconic. He returned as Davenport for “The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion!” in 1997 and “The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood” in 2000. Jones’s last TV appearance was in “Surface” in 2005, and his final film role was in “Unbreakable” in 2021.

In addition to acting, Jones had a political career. He served two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives for Georgia’s fourth district from 1989 to 1993. His co-star Tom Wopat shared a tribute on social media, remembering Jones as “a fine friend and a fierce advocate of all the best things we can offer in the entertainment business. He will be sorely missed.”

Jones had a strong connection with the music industry through his friendship with Whey Jennings, grandson of country legend Waylon Jennings. They shared the stage many times, and Jones contributed to Jennings’ first recorded live album.

In a past interview with the Richmond Times-Dispatch, Jones described “The Dukes of Hazzard” as reflecting America’s heartland values. “The good guys always win,” he stated.