Ben Jones, the actor and former US congressman best known for playing Cooter Davenport on the popular television series ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’, has sadly passed away, at the age of 84.Jones’ wife, Alma Viator, announced his death in a Facebook that read, “I lost the love of my life today. Ben passed from a massive heart attack. He was home resting in his favourite 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 loved him so much.”
Fans and friends mourn Ben Jones
Jones’ death prompted tributes from his former Dukes of Hazzard co-star Tom Wopat, who played Luke Duke on the long-running series. He wrote, “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…Denver Pyle frequently said to Ben, ‘I’m not your Uncle Jesse!'”Several others took to their social media handles to pen notes of love and remembrance.
Ben Jones’ acting career
Jones began his career as a stage actor before moving into film and television in the early 1970s. He appeared in films including ‘Smokey and the Bandit’. He also starred in ‘Moonrunners’, which served as an inspiration for ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’.In 1979, Jones joined The Dukes of Hazzard as Cooter Davenport, the Duke brothers’ friendly mechanic and close ally. He went on to appear in 141 episodes of the series between 1979 and 1985.Beyond The Dukes of Hazzard, Jones’ acting credits included ‘The Magical World of Disney’, ‘Jack’, ‘Sliders’ and more.
Ben Jones’ move from Hollywood to Washington
Jones later made a major career shift, leaving Los Angeles for Washington, D.C., where he entered politics. He won a seat in the US House of Representatives and served two terms in Congress.Jones is survived by his wife, Alma Viator.
