The Dukes of Hazzard (1979–1985)
- Jan 25, 1979
- 2 min read
The Dukes of Hazzard is an American action-comedy series that became a cultural phenomenon of the late 1970s and early 1980s, celebrated for its high-octane car chases, Southern charm, and rebellious spirit. Airing on CBS, the show stood out for its lighthearted take on rural life, centered around the Duke family’s adventures in avoiding corrupt authorities. Its iconic General Lee car and catchy theme song made it a television classic.
Created by Gy Waldron and Jerry Rushing, The Dukes of Hazzard was developed with contributions from writers like Myles Wilder. The series premiered on January 26, 1979, and its final episode aired on February 8, 1985. Waldron’s vision of a modern-day Robin Hood story, inspired by moonshine-running tales, resonated widely, blending action, humor, and family values.
Plot
Set in the fictional Hazzard County, Georgia, The Dukes of Hazzard follows cousins Bo and Luke Duke, who drive their 1969 Dodge Charger, the General Lee, while on probation for running moonshine. Alongside their cousin Daisy Duke and Uncle Jesse, they outwit corrupt county commissioner Boss Hogg and Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane, often helping locals with their schemes. The show explores themes of family loyalty, rebellion against corruption, and community, with humor and action driven by car stunts, slapstick chases, and the Dukes’ quick wit.
Cast
John Schneider as Bo Duke
Tom Wopat as Luke Duke
Catherine Bach as Daisy Duke
Denver Pyle as Uncle Jesse Duke
James Best as Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane
Sorrell Booke as Jefferson Davis “Boss” Hogg
Ben Jones as Cooter Davenport
Sonny Shroyer as Deputy Enos Strate (seasons 1–2, 5, recurring)
Notable guest stars: Waylon Jennings (narrator, “The Balladeer”), Mel Tillis
Seasons and Episodes
Season 1 (1979) – 13 episodes
Season 2 (1979–1980) – 23 episodes
Season 3 (1980–1981) – 23 episodes
Season 4 (1981–1982) – 27 episodes
Season 5 (1982–1983) – 22 episodes
Season 6 (1983–1984) – 22 episodes
Season 7 (1984–1985) – 17 episodes Total Episodes: 147
Cultural Impact
The Dukes of Hazzard became a 1980s pop culture juggernaut, with the General Lee’s orange paint and “01” doors becoming iconic, alongside Waylon Jennings’ theme song, “Good Ol’ Boys,” which hit #1 on the Billboard Country chart. Catchphrases like “Yee-haw!” and Daisy’s shorts fueled its popularity. The show influenced action-comedy series and spawned spin-offs like Enos (1980–1981), TV movies (Reunion! in 1997, Hazzard in Hollywood in 2000), and a 2005 film. Syndication on CMT and streaming on Amazon Prime keep it accessible, though its use of the Confederate flag on the General Lee has sparked debate. Merchandise like model cars and fan festivals sustain its legacy.
Honors and Recognition
The Dukes of Hazzard won a People’s Choice Award for Favorite TV Comedy/Musical Program in 1980 and was nominated for a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Film Editing in 1979. The ensemble, particularly James Best’s comedic Rosco, was praised, with the show’s high-energy stunts earning widespread acclaim.
Conclusion
The Dukes of Hazzard remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its thrilling car chases, Southern charm, and family-driven adventures. Its cultural impact and nostalgic appeal ensure its place as a timeless series that continues to entertain audiences across generations.
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