Ben Jones, best known for his role as Cooter Davenport in the beloved TV series “The Dukes of Hazzard,” has passed away at the age of 84. His death, confirmed by Rappahannock County Sheriff Connie Compton, came after Jones suffered a heart attack in his Virginia home while waiting to watch his favorite baseball team, the Atlanta Braves.
Jones became a household name as the friendly mechanic who helped the Duke boys navigate their adventures in Hazzard County, where they often found themselves in trouble with the corrupt Boss Hogg. His portrayal of Cooter was a key part of the show’s charm, which aired for seven seasons from 1979 to 1985.
Following his time on “The Dukes of Hazzard,” Jones transitioned into a political career, serving two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives after being elected in 1988. His background in acting and civil rights advocacy, as detailed in his autobiography “Redneck Boy in the Promised Land: The Confessions of ‘Crazy Cooter,’” shaped his approach to politics.
Born in North Carolina, Jones’s early life was marked by a passion for acting and social justice. He saw “The Dukes of Hazzard” as more than just a TV show; he believed it was a modern morality tale that showcased Southern values and the importance of family and friendship.
The series revolved around the Duke boys, Bo and Luke, who were on probation for running moonshine, and their attempts to clear their names while outsmarting Boss Hogg. Cooter, the mechanic, played a pivotal role in their escapades, often featured in thrilling car chases and stunts involving the iconic General Lee, a modified 1969 Dodge Charger.
Jones’s character was known for his quirky catchphrases, often heard over the CB radio, saying things like, “Breaker one, Breaker one. I might be crazy but I ain’t dumb.” This playful spirit resonated with viewers, contributing to the show’s lasting popularity, which continued even after it went into syndication.
Jones credited his time on the show with helping him overcome personal struggles, including alcoholism. He spoke fondly of the experience, likening it to being in a “Beatles movie,” and emphasized the positive impact it had on his life.
Tom Wopat, who played Luke Duke, expressed his sadness over Jones’s passing and highlighted the significant role he played in the show’s success. “Ben Jones was a fine friend and a fierce advocate of all the best things we can offer in the entertainment business. He will be sorely missed,” Wopat shared on social media.
After his political career, Jones embraced his identity as Cooter by opening several “Cooter’s” country stores, where fans could buy memorabilia from the show. His entrepreneurial spirit kept the legacy of “The Dukes of Hazzard” alive, showcasing the humor, action, and heart that defined the series.
In his own words, Jones believed the show reflected the values of America’s heartland, where good triumphs over evil. “The good guys always win,” he noted, a sentiment that resonated with many fans who grew up watching the adventures of the Duke boys and their trusty mechanic, Cooter.
