Ben Jones, known for his role as mechanic Cooter Davenport in The Dukes of Hazzard, has died at the age of 84. The actor experienced a heart attack at his home in Washington, Virginia, as shared by his wife, Alma Viator, on social media. The couple had been married since 1992.
Viator wrote on Facebook, expressing her deep sorrow, “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.” Her post included a photo of Ben with a dog.
Jones was born in Edgecombe County, North Carolina, on August 30, 1941. He began his career on stage before venturing into film in 1972 with Together For Days as Douglas. His other film contributions included Moonrunners in 1975 and The Lincoln Conspiracy in 1977.
Jones debuted on television in 1976, portraying a thief in an episode of Movin’ On. He appeared in Nashville 99 in 1977 and The Magical World of Disney in 1978. His iconic role as Cooter Davenport in The Dukes of Hazzard spanned over 140 episodes from 1979 to 1985. He returned to the role in The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion! (1997) and The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood (2000). His last television appearance was in Surface in 2005 and his final film role was in Unbreakable in 2021.
Besides acting, Jones was involved in politics, serving two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives for Georgia’s fourth district from 1989 to 1993.
Tom Wopat, Jones’ co-star, shared his grief on social media, saying, “‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ lost another integral part of their cast today. 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 recalled how Denver Pyle frequently addressed Jones jokingly, yet felt a deep loss with his passing.
Country music artist Whey Jennings, a grandson of Waylon Jennings, also mourned the loss of Jones. Having collaborated on numerous occasions, Jennings valued Jones’ support in his musical career, stating, “Wow, this one hurts. I’ll never forget all you have done for me, brother. It’s been an honor to share the stage with you so many times. You have been a true friend when I needed one most, and I’m gonna miss you so much.”
The appeal of The Dukes of Hazzard endures due to its humor, action, family-friendly nature, and portrayal of heartland American values. Ben Jones highlighted, “The show reflects the values of the heartland of America. The good guys always win.”
Sarah Sotoodeh is an associate entertainment editor for Fox News Digital. She holds a Master’s Degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from St. Edward’s University.
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