“The Dukes of Hazzard” is a classic American television series that aired from 1979 to 1985 on CBS. Created by Gy Waldron and inspired by the 1975 film Moonrunners, the show became a pop culture phenomenon with its blend of action, humor, and Southern charm. Set in the fictional Hazzard County, Georgia, the series follows the misadventures of two cousins, Bo Duke (John Schneider) and Luke Duke (Tom Wopat), as they navigate life while being pursued by the corrupt county commissioner, Boss Hogg (Sorrell Booke), and his bumbling sheriff, Rosco P. Coltrane (James Best). The show’s unique mix of car chases, daring stunts, family loyalty, and comedic villains made it a beloved series during its original run and a lasting part of American TV history.
Plot Overview
The central plot of “The Dukes of Hazzard” revolves around Bo and Luke Duke, two cousins living with their Uncle Jesse (Denver Pyle) and cousin Daisy Duke (Catherine Bach) on a farm in Hazzard County. The Duke boys, former moonshine runners, are on probation for their past crimes, meaning they must stay out of serious legal trouble. However, they constantly find themselves at odds with the corrupt county commissioner, Boss Hogg, who is always scheming to increase his wealth through illegal means. Much of the tension in the series comes from the Duke boys’ efforts to thwart Boss Hogg’s plans while avoiding arrest by Sheriff Rosco.
Bo and Luke’s primary mode of transportation is the General Lee, a bright orange 1969 Dodge Charger that has become an icon of the show. With its Confederate flag painted on the roof and the number “01” on its doors, the General Lee is known for its spectacular car chases and stunts, including high-flying jumps over rivers and obstacles. These high-octane car chases are a signature element of the show, often involving daring escapes from law enforcement and other villains.
Each episode typically follows a formula in which Boss Hogg hatches a new scheme to either make money illegally or entrap the Duke boys. Bo and Luke, with the help of Uncle Jesse and Daisy, must figure out a way to stop him, usually leading to comedic confrontations and high-speed pursuits through the rural roads of Hazzard County. Despite the many obstacles they face, the Dukes always manage to outsmart Boss Hogg and Rosco, restoring justice by the end of the episode.
- Get ready for action Hazzard County style! Luke and Bo Duke, along with their beautiful cousin, Daisy, and cranky Uncle Jesse, push the good fight just a little bit more than the law will allow
- Bo (John Schneider, “Smallville”), Luke (Tom Wopat), Daisy (Catherine Bach) and Jesse (Denver Pyle) can’t help but interfere in the affairs of the Hazzard County Police Department, its clueless Sheriff, Rosco P
- Coltrane (James Best), and corrupt county politician, Boss Hogg (Sorrell Booke)
- Their knack for getting themselves in trouble means there’s never a dull moment in Hazzard County, where the good guys are outlaws and trouble is just another day in the life of “The Dukes of Hazzard
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- PRODUCT DESCRIPTION Dukes of Hazzard (DVD) (WS) (Unrated) Action Comedy based on the hit television series that ran from 1979-85
- Set in present day, The Dukes of Hazzard follows the adventures of "good old boy" cousins Bo (Seann William Scott) and Luke (Johnny Knoxville) Duke, who with the help of their eye-catching cousin Daisy (Jessica Simpson) and moonshine-running Uncle Jesse (Willie Nelson), try and save the family farm from being destroyed by Hazzard County's corrupt commissioner Boss Hogg (Burt Reynolds)
- Their efforts constantly find the "Duke Boys" eluding authorities in "The General Lee," their famed 1969 orange Dodge Charger that keeps them one step ahead of the dimwitted antics of the small southern town's Sheriff Roscoe P
- Coltrane (M
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Key Characters
- Bo Duke (John Schneider): Bo is the younger of the Duke cousins and the more impulsive of the two. He is a skilled driver, known for his love of fast cars and racing. Bo’s lighthearted personality, charm, and adventurous spirit make him a fan favorite. His strong bond with his cousin Luke is central to the show, as the two work together to stop Boss Hogg’s schemes. Bo’s role as the driver of the General Lee often puts him at the center of the show’s many car chases and stunts.
- Luke Duke (Tom Wopat): Luke, the older and slightly more level-headed cousin, is known for his quick thinking and leadership. A former Marine, Luke brings a level of discipline and resourcefulness to the Duke family’s efforts to stay one step ahead of the law. He often serves as the strategist, coming up with plans to outwit Boss Hogg and Rosco. Like Bo, Luke is also a talented driver, but he is more inclined to think things through before taking action.
- Daisy Duke (Catherine Bach): Daisy is the Duke boys’ cousin, known for her good looks and her iconic cut-off denim shorts, which became a fashion trend and earned the name “Daisy Dukes.” While Daisy often uses her charm to help the Dukes out of tricky situations, she is far more than a pretty face. She is resourceful, smart, and fiercely loyal to her family. Daisy works as a waitress at the Boar’s Nest, a local bar owned by Boss Hogg, and often finds herself caught up in the chaos of her cousins’ adventures.
- Uncle Jesse Duke (Denver Pyle): Uncle Jesse is the patriarch of the Duke family and a former moonshiner himself. He serves as the moral compass of the family, providing wisdom and guidance to Bo, Luke, and Daisy. While he tries to keep his nephews out of trouble, he is often involved in their schemes to thwart Boss Hogg, using his knowledge of the county and his experience as a former moonshiner to help them.
- Boss Hogg (Sorrell Booke): Jefferson Davis “Boss” Hogg is the greedy, corrupt commissioner of Hazzard County. Always dressed in a white suit and hat, Boss Hogg is obsessed with making money and gaining more power. He is constantly trying to entrap the Duke boys in illegal activities or exploit the people of Hazzard County for his own gain. Despite his villainous nature, Boss Hogg is portrayed with a humorous, over-the-top flair that makes him a memorable and often likable antagonist.
- Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane (James Best): Rosco is Boss Hogg’s loyal but bumbling sheriff. While he is supposed to enforce the law, Rosco is easily manipulated by Boss Hogg and spends most of his time trying (and failing) to catch the Duke boys. Rosco’s comedic incompetence, along with his catchphrase “Coo Coo,” became a defining feature of the show. His interactions with his loyal but equally goofy dog, Flash, added even more humor to his character.
- Cooter Davenport (Ben Jones): Cooter is the local mechanic and a close friend of the Dukes. He often helps the Duke boys repair the General Lee after their wild chases or lends a hand in their schemes to thwart Boss Hogg. His loyalty to the Duke family and his laid-back personality made him a popular character.
Themes and Storytelling
At its core, “The Dukes of Hazzard” is a show about family, loyalty, and the fight for justice in a corrupt system. The Duke family’s tight-knit bond is central to the show’s appeal, as they rely on each other to navigate the challenges posed by Boss Hogg and Rosco. The series celebrates rural Southern values, with themes of hard work, fairness, and standing up to corruption running through each episode.
One of the most iconic elements of the show is the car chase, which became a defining feature of “The Dukes of Hazzard.” The high-flying stunts performed by the General Lee, combined with the slapstick antics of Rosco and his deputies, created a blend of action and comedy that kept viewers entertained. The General Lee, with its distinctive horn and thrilling jumps, became a symbol of the show and one of the most recognizable vehicles in television history.
Another key element of the show is its lighthearted humor. While “The Dukes of Hazzard” dealt with conflicts between the Duke family and corrupt authorities, the tone of the show remained fun and family-friendly. The exaggerated schemes of Boss Hogg, the bumbling nature of Rosco, and the playful banter between the Duke boys and their friends provided comedic relief in every episode.
Although “The Dukes of Hazzard” focused primarily on action and comedy, it also reflected the values of justice and fairness. The Duke boys, despite their rebellious streak, always acted out of a sense of right and wrong. Their efforts to stop Boss Hogg from exploiting the people of Hazzard County were driven by a moral compass that emphasized protecting the community.
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Cultural Impact and Legacy
“The Dukes of Hazzard” became a massive hit during its run, attracting millions of viewers and becoming a staple of 1980s television. Its combination of action, humor, and relatable characters made it appealing to audiences of all ages. The show’s impact extended beyond television, with merchandise such as lunchboxes, toys, and the famous General Lee car becoming iconic symbols of the series.
The show’s influence can also be seen in its role in shaping perceptions of the rural South in American pop culture. While some aspects of the show have faced criticism over time, particularly the Confederate flag on the General Lee, “The Dukes of Hazzard” remains a nostalgic and beloved series for many viewers. Its lasting appeal has led to reruns, DVD releases, and even a 2005 film adaptation.
Overall, “The Dukes of Hazzard” left an indelible mark on American television, blending action, comedy, and family values in a way that resonated with audiences for generations. The series remains a cherished part of television history, remembered for its unforgettable car chases, iconic characters, and the sense of fun and adventure that made it a standout show during its time.
