The General Lee: Secrets Of The Dukes Of Hazzard Car!
Could a car truly be a star? In the world of television, especially in the realm of iconic vehicles, the answer is a resounding yes, and no car embodies this more than the General Lee.
The General Lee, the vibrant orange 1969 Dodge Charger, burst onto the scene in the television series "The Dukes of Hazzard." It was more than just a means of transport; it was an extension of the Duke boys, Bo and Luke, and played an integral role in their adventures. The car was instantly recognizable, with its signature Confederate flag on the roof, the prominent "01" painted on its doors, and the distinctive air horn that blared before every daring escape. The General Lee, with its doors welded shut, became an emblem of freedom, rebellion, and the spirit of the American South.
The show, which debuted on CBS on January 26, 1979, quickly became a cultural phenomenon, running for 147 episodes over seven seasons. The General Lee was a constant presence, participating in high-speed chases, gravity-defying jumps, and countless other stunts. The car's iconic status was cemented through these stunts, making it a central piece of iconography throughout the show's run, from 1979 to 1985.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model | 1969 Dodge Charger R/T |
| Color | Orange (not a factory color) |
| Number | "01" painted on the doors |
| Flag | Confederate flag on the roof |
| Horn | Signature air horn |
| Doors | Welded shut |
| Engine Variations | 383hp and 440hp engines were used in various scenes. |
| Stunts | Known for long jumps, police chases, and other daring maneuvers. |
| Appearances | Starred in "The Dukes of Hazzard" television series and related movies. |
| Fate | A significant number of Chargers were destroyed during filming (estimated over 300). |
Reference: IMDB - The Dukes of Hazzard
The car was not just a prop, it was a character in itself. Each episode featured the General Lee prominently. The car became synonymous with the show and played a role that extended beyond the screen. It aided in the Duke boys' audacious escapes and their hilarious antics against the bumbling Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane. The vehicle was a constant reminder of the family's defiance.
The construction and modification of the General Lee for each episode were significant undertakings. The car was built to withstand the punishment of repeated jumps, crashes, and high-speed chases. The doors were famously welded shut, requiring the Duke boys to enter and exit through the windows, adding to the car's rebellious aura. The mechanics worked tirelessly to keep the fleet of Chargers in working order, modifying and repairing them constantly.
The General Lees signature look, the vibrant orange paint, was not a factory color for the 1969 Dodge Charger. The color, along with the 01 and Confederate flag, was a deliberate design choice that enhanced the car's visual appeal and rebellious spirit. Though the flag itself has stirred controversy, it was a fundamental part of the car's identity.
Behind the scenes, the filming of the stunts was a marvel of engineering and coordination. The jumps, which became the car's defining feature, required precise calculations and skilled stunt drivers. The team had to consider the angle of approach, the distance, and the landing to ensure each jump looked spectacular while minimizing damage to the car. The crashes were carefully choreographed, often involving multiple takes to get the perfect shot.
The General Lee's influence spread far beyond the television screen. The car sparked a wave of interest in the 1969 Dodge Charger, with fans customizing other models to replicate the iconic vehicle. The General Lee became a symbol of American pop culture. The car's legacy lives on in the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors around the world.
The Dukes of Hazzard line featured an 8-inch series, along with a 3.75-inch series of toys released in 1980 by Mego's toy line, which became a big seller until being discontinued in 1981. These toys helped to cement the car's place in popular culture, allowing fans to own a piece of the show.
The series introduced viewers to the Duke family cousins Bo (John Schneider) and Luke (Tom Wopat), Daisy (Catherine Bach), and Uncle Jesse. The show, centered in Hazzard County, became a favorite for its exciting car chases, action sequences, and the close-knit family dynamic. The General Lees appearance in the opening credits before any actor solidifies its importance to the show.
The number of General Lees used and destroyed during the series is a testament to the demanding nature of filming. While exact figures vary, the consensus is that a large number of 1969 Chargers were sacrificed for the show's stunts and action sequences. Sources suggest that over 300 Chargers were utilized throughout the filming of the 147 episodes. The cars had their share of celebrity days and still are considered as unique cars, priceless to collectors. The dedication to the stunts, chases, and jumps, which made the General Lee famous, also made sure that there was always a need to get another one.
While the car's association with the Confederate flag has sparked debate and controversy, the General Lee remains an enduring icon. The vehicle, regardless of this association, symbolizes a certain era of American television, a time of adventure, and fun. It has retained its popularity, remaining a highly sought-after collectible for fans of the series. For many, the General Lee is a symbol of a time. This car, more than any other, became synonymous with the adventurous spirit of the show and the characters that drove it.
The car's enduring popularity led to its use in various spin-offs and reunions, continuing its legacy. The General Lee has also appeared in movies, video games, and other media, cementing its place in popular culture. The General Lee continues to inspire fans to celebrate its legendary status. Its legacy continues to resonate with fans today, reminding us of a time when cars were stars.
