The Untold Bloopers and Mistakes in ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’
‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ remains a beloved classic, known for its high-flying car chases and charming characters. However, even the most iconic shows aren’t without their slip-ups. Let’s delve into some of the lesser-known bloopers and mistakes that eagle-eyed fans have spotted.
Throughout the series, sharp viewers have noticed several continuity errors. For instance, stock footage sometimes shows Bo driving General Lee when, in the storyline, Luke is supposed to be behind the wheel. Such inconsistencies can momentarily pull viewers out of the action.
While ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ is set in Georgia, filming often occurred elsewhere, leading to some noticeable geographical errors. The terrain and plant life seen on screen sometimes don’t match Georgia’s landscape, revealing the show’s actual filming locations.
The iconic General Lee, a 1969 Dodge Charger, is central to the show’s identity. However, due to the high number of cars used (over 300 during the series), subtle differences between vehicles can be spotted. Eagle-eyed fans have noticed discrepancies in features like the “01” numbering and the placement of decals, indicating the use of multiple cars.
In one episode, Rosco steals General Lee and makes a jump over a camping trailer, clipping it and revealing an empty prop rather than a furnished interior. Such revealing mistakes remind viewers of the show’s staged nature.
Despite being lifelong residents of Hazzard County, neither Bo nor Luke Duke consistently spoke with a Southern accent, much less a Georgian one. This inconsistency becomes even more apparent after John Schneider and Tom Wopat return from their Season 5 salary holdout.
Throughout the series, Hughie Hogg always appeared with a duo of henchmen. Even though played by the same actors in every appearance, they constantly switched names. Actor Roger Torrey’s character had the names, Wayne and Norris, while actor Pat Studstill’s character switched names between Floyd and Barclay.
Throughout the show, Jesse has a shotgun in the house, and he is occasionally seen using it. However, a gun is not allowed in a house that has a convicted felon in it.
While these bloopers and mistakes might be apparent upon close inspection, they don’t diminish the charm and entertainment value of ‘The Dukes of Hazzard.’ Instead, they offer fans an additional layer of enjoyment, turning each episode into a treasure hunt for hidden goofs.
The Dukes of Hazzard is an American action-comedy television series that aired on CBS from January 26, 1979, to February 8, 1985. Created by Gy Waldron, the show was inspired by the 1975 film Moonrunners, which also featured fast cars, Southern culture, and outlaw themes.
Plot and Setting
The series follows Bo and Luke Duke, two cousins living in fictional Hazzard County, Georgia. They drive their famous orange 1969 Dodge Charger, the General Lee, and often find themselves in trouble with the corrupt county commissioner, Boss Hogg, and his bumbling sheriff, Rosco P. Coltrane. The Duke boys, along with their Uncle Jesse and their cousin Daisy Duke, work to outsmart Hogg’s schemes while helping people in need.
Main Characters
- Bo Duke (John Schneider) – The blonde, fun-loving Duke cousin.
- Luke Duke (Tom Wopat) – The older, more level-headed Duke cousin.
- Daisy Duke (Catherine Bach) – Their beautiful cousin, known for her short shorts (“Daisy Dukes”).
- Uncle Jesse Duke (Denver Pyle) – Their wise uncle, a former moonshiner.
- Boss Hogg (Sorrell Booke) – The corrupt county commissioner who wants to arrest the Dukes.
- Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane (James Best) – Boss Hogg’s dimwitted but persistent sheriff.
- Cooter Davenport (Ben Jones) – The Dukes’ mechanic and friend.
Cultural Impact
- The Dukes of Hazzard became one of the most popular TV shows of the early 1980s, known for its high-speed car chases and humor.
- The General Lee, with its Confederate flag on the roof and horn that played “Dixie,” became an iconic TV car.
- Daisy Duke’s outfits led to the popular term “Daisy Dukes” for short shorts.
- The show inspired toys, video games, and even a 2005 film adaptation starring Johnny Knoxville and Seann William Scott.
Controversy and Legacy
- In later years, the Confederate flag on the General Lee became controversial, leading to merchandise changes.
- Despite this, the show remains a nostalgic favorite, with reruns and a dedicated fan base.