The Dukes of Hazzard actor James Best became Rosco P. Coltrane Quotes known for his role as the bumbling Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane, a character that made the show’s run over four years a hit with young and old alike. Best’s portrayal of the hapless lawman was both entertaining and touching at times, as the sheriff proved to be much more caring than he let on, particularly when it came to the safety of Boss Hogg.
The sheriff’s clumsy, slow-witted nature often led to hilarious situations in which he was forced to confront the Duke boys or their crooked associates. His favorite catchphrase was “cuff ’em and stuff ’em”, which he would frequently use when arresting the boys or anyone else for that matter. He also had a tendency to speak in a childish vernacular and to laugh in a choppy, excited way.
The Wit and Wisdom of Rosco P. Coltrane: Memorable Quotes from ‘The Dukes of Hazzard
In addition to his humorous side, the sheriff proved to be a surprisingly skilled lawman at times when he was forced to take matters into his own hands. He was able to track down and apprehend a number of criminals on the series, including a man who attempted to steal his car in one episode.
In one of the show’s more poignant episodes, Rosco revealed that he had been married briefly in an episode in the third season to a woman who he found through a computer dating service. This was the only time on the show that the sheriff appeared to actually care for someone other than himself, but the marriage was a sham — his “bride” robbed banks with her husband and his associate.