James Best (Rosco from 'Dukes of Hazard') dead at 88

By RODNEY HO/ rho@ajc.com, originally filed Tuesday April 7, 2015

James Best, who played the bumbling sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane on CBS's "Dukes of Hazzard," died of complications from pneumonia at age 88.

ExploreThe Charlotte Observer broke the news earlier this morning.

Best worked for more than 60 years in show business in 83 movies and 600 TV shows. But "Dukes of Hazzard" was his biggest, best known role. He had roles in "The Virginian," "The Andy Griffith Show" and "The Twilight Zone," to name a few. According to imdb,com, he was most recently working on a film called "Old Soldiers."

"Dukes of Hazzard" was set in a fictional Hazzard County in Georgia and was shot in Covington and Conyers in 1979 for five episodes. The show then moved Burbank, Calif. for the duration of the series, which lasted six seasons. It peaked at No. 2 during the 1980-81 season behind only "Dallas," with 21.8 million households, which would equal about 33 million viewers a week.

His character spent years chasing after the Duke boys and giggling about the prospect:

About the Author

‘Bert Show,’ former host Moe Mitchell settle suit over alleged breach of contract

The Bert Show, which ended in October after a quarter century on the radio, had filed a lawsuit against former morning host Moe Mitchell for breach of contract.

From Marietta to millions, ‘The Elf on the Shelf’ turns 20

A Marietta family 20 years ago created a brand-new tradition with Elf on the Shelf, a Christmas miracle in a day and age where nostalgia rules the airwaves and gift shops.

Atlanta’s New Year’s Eve Peach Drop replaced by fireworks, drone display

Last year’s Peach Drop, which featured concerts by Big Boi and Neon Trees, cost $630K. A city spokesperson said this fireworks and drone show will cost no more than $250K.

The Latest