Actor James Best, more popularly known for his role as Rosco Coltrane on the famous TV show Dukes Of Hazzard, died due to complications of pneumonia in a hospice in Hickory, South Carolina, according to his wife Dorothy via BBC News.

Best's former co-star, John Schneider, who plays Bo Duke in the 'Dukes Of Hazzard' paid homage to Best, calling him a 'fine man'.

Like Us on Facebook

The TV show ran through 1975 up to 1985.

"I learned more about acting in front of a camera from Jimmie Best in an afternoon than from anyone else in a year. When asked to cry on camera, he would say, 'Sure thing - which eye?' I'm forever thankful to have cut my teeth in the company of such a fine man," said Schneider, in an interview with Charlotte Observer.

"I will always love Jimmie for his kindness to me, remembering him for his sparkling, piercing wit, and envying him for his full head of hair," said Rick Hurst, who played Cletus Hog in the TV Show.

Best started his career as an actor in 1950 and was signed under the contract of Universal Studios.

Best played consecutive roles of villains in Western movies before venturing his career more on television.

The 88 year old actor was known for starring in several films and TV shows alongside the likes of other iconic actors such as Humphrey Bogart and Jimmy Stewart.

But it was Best's portrayal of Sheriff Coltrane, often outsmarted by Luke and Bo Duke, which made him a 'national figure'.

When Best was off the set, he taught drama at the University of Mississippi and University Of Central Florid.

Best also started an acting class in Hollywood and worked hand in hand with celebrities such as Gary Oldman, Gary Busey, Clint Eastwood, Farrah Fawcett and Quentin Tarantino.

Best is survived by his wife, son and two daughters.

TagsDukes Of Hazzard, James Best, Dies