Ben Jones, Actor Turned Politician Who Played Cooter Davenport in ‘The Dukes of Hazzard,’ Dies at 84
Ben Jones, beloved ‘Dukes of Hazzard’ star and former Georgia lawmaker, dies at 84, sparking tributes across TV and politics.
The obvious questions
When was Ben Jones’ death reported?
Reports published on August 9, 2026 announced that he died at age 84.
What roles made Ben Jones notable?
He was known for portraying Cooter Davenport on ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ and for serving as a Georgia state legislator.
Which media outlets covered his passing?
Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, FOX 5 Atlanta, WSB‑TV and 9News reported on his death.
The story so far
Ben Jones died at 84, the former actor and Georgia lawmaker best known for playing Cooter Davenport on ‘The Dukes of Hazzard.’ His death marks the loss of a figure who blended entertainment with public service, having served in the state legislature after his television career. Regional stations WSB‑TV and 9News echoed the news, underscoring his prominence in both Georgia politics and classic television.
Fans of the long‑running series, former legislative colleagues, and Georgia’s entertainment community are poised to issue tributes. Coverage indicates that memorial details will be released by his family, and public statements are expected from former fellow lawmakers.
The combined remembrance from television and political circles reflects the dual legacy he left behind.
Synthesized by Newsylist from the headlines below under a strict no-invention contract. ✓ fact-checked: unsupported claims removed (63% supported) Updated 1h ago.
Who reported it (10)
- Ben Jones, Actor Turned Politician Who Played Cooter Davenport in ‘The Dukes of Hazzard,’ Dies at 84 Variety · 5h ago
- Ben Jones Dies: Cooter On ‘Dukes Of Hazzard,’ Georgia Congressman Was 84 Deadline · 5h ago
- 'Dukes of Hazzard' actor, former Georgia lawmaker Ben Jones dies FOX 5 Atlanta · 5h ago
- Ben Jones, 'Dukes of Hazzard' actor turned congressman, has died 9News · 5h ago
- Ben Jones, who played Cooter on ‘The Dukes of Hazzard,’ dies at 84 WLWT · 5h ago
- ‘Dukes of Hazzard’ cast member, former Georgia lawmaker, dies WSB-TV · 5h ago
- Ben Jones, Actor Turned Politician Who Played Cooter Davenport in ‘The Dukes of Hazzard,’ Dies at 84 Variety · 5h ago
- ‘Dukes of Hazzard’ star dies at 84 WYMT · 5h ago
- Ben Jones, Cooter Davenport on ‘The Dukes of Hazzard,’ Dies at 84 The Hollywood Reporter · 5h ago broke it first
- Ben Jones, Cooter Davenport on ‘The Dukes of Hazzard,’ Dies at 84 The Hollywood Reporter · 5h ago broke it first
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