The Dukes of Hazzard was a popular TV show that aired from 1979 to 1985. The show followed the adventures of two cousins, Bo and Luke Duke, who lived in Hazzard County, Georgia. The show was known for its high-speed car chases, country humor, and catchy theme song.
The Original Cast
The Dukes of Hazzard starred John Schneider as Bo Duke, Tom Wopat as Luke Duke, and Catherine Bach as Daisy Duke. The show also featured Denver Pyle as Uncle Jesse, Sorrell Booke as Boss Hogg, and James Best as Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane.
Despite the show’s popularity, it was not without controversy. The use of the Confederate flag on the roof of the Duke’s car, the General Lee, has been criticized for its association with racism and slavery.
The Dukes of Hazzard Spinoff
In 1997, a spinoff of The Dukes of Hazzard was created called The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion! The movie brought back the original cast and followed the Dukes as they returned to Hazzard County for a family reunion.
In 2000, another movie called The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood was released. The movie again brought back the original cast and followed the Dukes as they traveled to Hollywood to save their farm.
The Dukes of Hazzard Remake
In 2005, a remake of The Dukes of Hazzard was released. The movie starred Johnny Knoxville as Luke Duke, Seann William Scott as Bo Duke, and Jessica Simpson as Daisy Duke.
The movie was met with mixed reviews and controversy due to its use of the Confederate flag. The flag was removed from the General Lee in some promotional materials and international releases.
The Dukes of Hazzard Spinoff Series
In 2021, it was announced that a spinoff series of The Dukes of Hazzard was in development. The series, called The Dukes of Hazzard: The Beginning, will be a prequel to the original show and will follow a young Bo and Luke Duke as they navigate life in Hazzard County.
The series will be produced by John Schneider and is set to premiere on The Nashville Network.
Controversy and Criticism
The use of the Confederate flag on the General Lee has been a source of controversy and criticism for The Dukes of Hazzard. Some have argued that the flag represents Southern heritage and pride, while others argue that it is a symbol of racism and oppression.
In 2015, following the Charleston church shooting, TV Land pulled reruns of The Dukes of Hazzard from its lineup due to the use of the Confederate flag on the General Lee. The decision was met with backlash from fans of the show.
The Legacy of The Dukes of Hazzard
The Dukes of Hazzard remains a beloved TV show and cultural icon. The show has been referenced in movies, TV shows, and music, and the General Lee has become an iconic car in American pop culture.
Despite controversy and criticism, The Dukes of Hazzard continues to have a dedicated fan base and remains a nostalgic favorite for many.