Ben Jones is an American actor, writer, politician, and musician who gained fame for his role as Cooter Davenport on the hit television series The Dukes of Hazzard. Known for his portrayal of the good-natured mechanic and friend to the Duke family, Jones quickly became a fan favorite on the show. Beyond his time in Hazzard County, Jones has led a multifaceted career that spans entertainment, politics, and advocacy. He has remained deeply connected to The Dukes of Hazzardthrough various ventures, including his ownership of “Cooter’s Place” museums, while also serving two terms in the United States House of Representatives. Jones’ life story is one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering connection to his Southern roots.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Ben Lewis Jones was born on August 30, 1941, in Tarboro, North Carolina. He grew up in a rural, working-class environment, raised by his family in a small town in Virginia. The Southern culture in which Jones was raised had a significant impact on his personal identity and his future work as an actor and politician. This strong connection to his Southern heritage was evident in many of his roles and public stances throughout his life.
Jones’ early exposure to theater and acting came through school plays, and after graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School in Portsmouth, Virginia, he pursued acting more seriously. Jones attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he immersed himself in the arts, participating in campus theater productions and honing his craft. While he was initially drawn to theater, his Southern roots and strong sense of place would eventually become key themes in both his acting and his political career.
In the late 1960s, Jones began his professional acting career, appearing in off-Broadway productions and making small guest appearances in television series and films. His stage work helped him develop a strong sense of timing and presence, attributes that would later define his role as Cooter Davenport on The Dukes of Hazzard. Though the early years of his acting career were marked by modest success, his big break came in 1979 when he was cast in the role that would define his career.
Breakthrough Role as Cooter Davenport on The Dukes of Hazzard
In 1979, Ben Jones was cast as Cooter Davenport, the lovable mechanic, on the CBS television series The Dukes of Hazzard. Created by Gy Waldron, the show followed the misadventures of cousins Bo and Luke Duke as they faced off against the corrupt law enforcement in fictional Hazzard County, Georgia. Jones’ character, Cooter, was the local mechanic who often found himself helping the Duke boys get out of trouble, particularly when their car, the General Lee, needed repairs or upgrades.
Cooter quickly became a beloved character on the show. Known for his easygoing personality, Southern charm, and unwavering loyalty to the Duke family, Cooter was always willing to lend a hand to his friends and stand up to the nefarious schemes of Boss Hogg (played by Sorrell Booke) and Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane (James Best). Jones infused the character with humor and authenticity, making Cooter feel like a true Southern everyman who was proud of his roots and always ready to help his community.
Jones’ portrayal of Cooter resonated with audiences, particularly those from rural and working-class backgrounds, who saw him as a relatable figure who represented the values of friendship, loyalty, and perseverance. His comedic timing, combined with his genuine warmth, made Cooter one of the most endearing characters on the show.
The Dukes of Hazzard became one of the most popular television shows of the 1980s, running for seven seasons from 1979 to 1985. Jones appeared in 129 episodes of the series, and his character’s role grew as the show progressed. While Bo and Luke Duke were the main stars, Cooter became an essential part of the show’s dynamic, providing comic relief while also offering moments of heart and wisdom.
Post-Dukes of Hazzard Career and Political Life
After The Dukes of Hazzard ended in 1985, Ben Jones continued to work as an actor, but his life soon took a different direction. In the late 1980s, Jones entered politics, running for office in his home state of Georgia. His political career reflected his deep connection to Southern culture and his desire to serve the working-class people with whom he felt a strong kinship.
In 1988, Jones was elected as a Democrat to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Georgia’s 4th congressional district. He was re-elected in 1990, serving two terms in Congress from 1989 to 1993. During his time in office, Jones focused on issues important to his constituents, such as healthcare, infrastructure, and labor rights. He was known for his passionate speeches on the House floor and his commitment to improving the lives of working-class Americans.
Jones’ political career was characterized by his progressive stance on economic issues and his advocacy for workers’ rights. He was a vocal supporter of organized labor and worked to protect social programs that benefited low- and middle-income Americans. Jones’ time in Congress was also marked by his dedication to environmental conservation and his efforts to protect Georgia’s natural resources.
After serving two terms in Congress, Jones ran for office again in 1994, this time in Virginia, but was unsuccessful in his bid for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Though his political career was relatively short-lived, his time in office reflected his deep-seated values of fairness, justice, and compassion for working people.
Life After Politics: Cooter’s Place and Dukes Fandom
Although Ben Jones’ political career came to an end in the mid-1990s, he remained a prominent public figure, particularly within the Dukes of Hazzard fan community. Recognizing the enduring popularity of the show, Jones opened a series of museums and stores called “Cooter’s Place,” dedicated to The Dukes of Hazzard. The first Cooter’s Place opened in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, followed by locations in Nashville and Luray, Virginia. These museums became a hub for fans of the show, offering memorabilia, merchandise, and a chance to celebrate the legacy of The Dukes of Hazzard.
Jones’ deep connection to the show and its fans made him a central figure at Dukes of Hazzard fan events, including reunions and car shows. He regularly attended conventions, signing autographs, posing for pictures, and engaging with the dedicated fanbase that had kept the show alive in the years following its original run. Jones’ enthusiasm for The Dukes of Hazzard and his genuine love for the fans who supported him helped solidify his place as one of the most beloved cast members of the show.
In addition to running Cooter’s Place, Jones has continued to act in both film and television over the years. He appeared in Primary Colors (1998), a political satire directed by Mike Nichols, as well as guest roles on various television series. Despite his continued work in the entertainment industry, Jones’ most enduring legacy remains his role as Cooter and his contributions to the preservation of The Dukes of Hazzard’s cultural significance.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Ben Jones has been open about his personal struggles, including his battle with alcoholism during the early years of his career. He has spoken candidly about his recovery and the role that sobriety played in helping him turn his life around. His journey through addiction and recovery became a central part of his advocacy work, and he has used his platform to raise awareness about the importance of addiction treatment and mental health support.
Jones married his wife, Alma Viator, in 1992, and the couple has remained deeply involved in both the entertainment and political worlds. Together, they have worked to maintain the Cooter’s Place museums and engage with Dukes of Hazzardfans, ensuring that the legacy of the show continues for future generations.
Legacy
Ben Jones’ legacy is one of perseverance, passion, and pride in his Southern heritage. His portrayal of Cooter Davenport on The Dukes of Hazzard made him a television icon, and his work in politics and advocacy reflects his dedication to serving others. Whether on screen, in Congress, or at fan conventions, Jones has always brought an authenticity and sincerity to his work that resonates with people from all walks of life.
Jones’ ability to balance a career in entertainment and politics, while maintaining a strong connection to his roots, makes him a truly unique figure in American culture. His ongoing commitment to the legacy of The Dukes of Hazzard and his role as a champion for the working class ensure that Ben Jones will be remembered as much more than just a beloved actor—he is a true Southern gentleman who has made an indelible mark on both television and American society.