Ben Jones: From TV Fame to Political Career
Ben Jones, known for his role as the mechanic Cooter Davenport in “The Dukes of Hazzard,” has passed away at the age of 84. Jones died of a heart attack at his Washington, Virginia home while preparing to watch an Atlanta Braves baseball game, according to his wife Alma Viator and confirmation from Rappahannock County Sheriff Connie Compton.
Jones rose to fame on the show, where he helped the Duke boys fight corruption in fictional Hazzard County, Georgia. From 1979 to 1985, he portrayed Cooter in all seven seasons, securing his place in television history.
Transition to Politics
After his acting career, Jones ventured into the political arena. In 1988, he was elected to the U.S. House from a district near Atlanta as a Democrat, serving two terms before redistricting ended his tenure. Despite being born in North Carolina, college introduced him to acting and civil rights, as detailed in his autobiography, “Redneck Boy in the Promised Land: The Confessions of ‘Crazy Cooter.’”
Jones continued to act in various productions and had minor roles in TV and movies during the 1970s in Atlanta before achieving his significant break with “The Dukes of Hazzard.” He defended the show as a modern morality tale and an ode to Southern values.
The Dukes of Hazzard
For seven seasons, Jones joined a small group assisting the Duke brothers, Bo and Luke, in their quest to outsmart the crooked Boss Hogg. The show featured Cooter as a mechanic owning “Cooter’s Garage,” central to the series’ narrative involving thrilling car chases and stunts. Cooter frequently communicated via CB radio, leading with his memorable catchphrase.
The series remained popular on CBS, entered syndication, and later aired on cable. Jones attributed the show to helping him overcome his struggles with alcoholism and revitalizing his life.
Tom Wopat, who played Luke Duke, praised Jones for his contributions to the series and cherished his friendship.
Political Pursuits and Legacy
Jones transitioned into politics while maintaining his distinct personality but approached issues diligently. Elected to the U.S. House, he developed a reputation as a Democrat willing to challenge his party, balancing liberal social views with conservative economic stances.
Despite losing a congressional race to Newt Gingrich in 1994, Jones filed an ethics complaint against Gingrich, leading to a reprimand and his eventual departure from Congress.
Jones embraced his Cooter persona, opening several “Cooter’s” country stores in Virginia and Tennessee, featuring merchandise and memorabilia from “The Dukes of Hazzard.”
The show remains celebrated for its humor, action, and family-friendly appeal. Jones remarked on “The Dukes of Hazzard” reflecting American heartland values, celebrating good triumphing over evil.