NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsAugust 11, 2026Hillsborough
Ben Jones, actor and former U.S. Representative, dies at 84
Ben Jones, known for his role as Cooter Davenport on 'The Dukes of Hazzard' and his service as a two-term Democratic U.S. Representative from Georgia, has died at age 84. Jones served in Congress from 1989 to 1993 and later filed a notable ethics complaint against then-Speaker Newt Gingrich.
Read the full story at ABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsWhy It Matters
The passing of a former member of Congress marks the end of a career that bridged the entertainment industry and federal legislative service.
Key Facts
- Ben Jones died at age 84 following a heart attack at his home in Washington, Virginia.
- Jones served two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives representing a district near Atlanta, Georgia, starting in 1989.
- Jones filed an ethics complaint against Newt Gingrich regarding the use of tax-deductible donations for a partisan college course.
- Jones played the character Cooter Davenport on the TV series 'The Dukes of Hazzard' from 1979 to 1985.
- Following his acting career, Jones opened 'Cooter's' country stores in Tennessee and Virginia featuring memorabilia from the show.
Who's Mentioned
organizationU.S. House“The legislative body where Jones served two terms.”personAlma Viator“Wife of Ben Jones.”personTom Wopat“Actor who played Luke Duke in 'The Dukes of Hazzard'.”personNewt Gingrich“Former Speaker of the House who was the subject of an ethics complaint by Jones.”other300“Estimated number of General Lee cars used in the TV series.”personBen Jones“Actor and former U.S. Representative who passed away.”personConnie Compton“Rappahannock County Sheriff who confirmed the death.”