Ben Jones, the actor who became famous as mechanic Cooter Davenport on “The Dukes of Hazzard” and later served in Congress, died Sunday at his Virginia home. He was 84.
Jones’ wife, Alma Viator, announced his death in a Facebook post Sunday evening. She said he suffered a massive heart attack while resting at home and described him as someone who had lived a full life and was deeply loved.
Tom Wopat, one of Jones’ co-stars on “The Dukes of Hazzard,” also confirmed the loss in an Instagram post. Wopat described Jones as an integral member of the show’s cast and remembered him as a longtime friend.
Jones joined “The Dukes of Hazzard” in the late 1970s as Cooter Davenport, a mechanic and tow truck operator.
His character became closely associated with the General Lee, the orange 1969 Dodge Charger featured prominently in the series.
The show initially received dismissive reviews but became a major television success after its January 1979 debut. It remained popular through its seven season run, with Jones appearing in 142 episodes, according to IMDb.
Jones also helped shape Cooter beyond the character’s original Southern stereotype. He pushed for the mechanic to become a more humorous, loyal and relatable figure, contributing to Cooter’s popularity with viewers.
Following his television success, Jones entered Georgia politics as a Democrat. He first challenged Republican incumbent Pat Swindall for a US House seat in 1986 but narrowly lost.
The two faced each other again in 1988. Jones won the rematch after Swindall was indicted on charges related to perjury, and Jones was reelected in 1990.
Jones served four years in the House from 1989 to 1993. After redistricting changed the congressional map, he attempted to defeat Newt Gingrich in 1994 but lost.
Jones returned to entertainment after leaving Congress, appearing in “The Dukes of Hazzard” reunion productions and other projects. His later film credits included “Primary Colors” in 1998 and “Joe Gould’s Secret” in 2000.
In 1999, Jones and Viator moved to Virginia and opened Cooter’s, a museum and store dedicated to the television series. The business became part of his continuing connection with “The Dukes of Hazzard” fans.
Jones discussed his personal struggles with alcoholism in his 2007 memoir, “Redneck Boy in the Promised Land.” The book chronicled difficult periods in his life and his efforts to rebuild his career.
His later public life also drew controversy. In 2015, Jones defended the Confederate battle flag after Warner Bros. announced it would stop manufacturing “Dukes of Hazzard” merchandise featuring the symbol.
Jones was due to turn 85 on Aug. 30.
Who was Ben Jones?
Ben Jones was an actor best known for playing Cooter Davenport on “The Dukes of Hazzard.” He later became a Democratic congressman from Georgia.
How did Ben Jones die?
His wife, Alma Viator, said Jones died after a major heart attack at his Virginia home.
What was Ben Jones best known for?
He was best known for playing Cooter Davenport, the mechanic and tow-truck operator on “The Dukes of Hazzard.”
