Entertainment

Warner Bros. Halts Production Of ‘Dukes of Hazzard’ General Lee Car Toys

Kerry Picket Political Reporter
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The controversy surrounding the Confederate battle flag has spread from the capitol in South Carolina to retailers that sell flag-oriented merchandise across the country.

Now, the memorable 1969 red-orange Dodge Charger known as the “General Lee” from the CBS program “The Dukes of Hazzard” is getting the boot. The show, which ran from 1979 to 1985, revolved around two cousins, Bo and Luke Duke of Hazzard County, Georgia and their car.

Warner Brothers announced Tuesday it would stop producing merchandise associated with the Confederate flag-adorned car from the show known for chase scenes and incredible jumps as the horn played the first few notes of “Dixie.”

During the show’s run, the car was the program’s main attraction for many viewers and even made a return in 2005, when “The Dukes of Hazzard” made it on to the big screen with actor Johnny Knoxville.

Jessica Simpson arrives at the Los Angeles premiere of "The Dukes of Hazzard" in Hollywood.

Actress Jessica Simpson arrives at the Los Angeles premiere of Warner Brothers pictures “The Dukes of Hazzard” at the Grauman’s Chinese theatre in Hollywood July 28, 2005. (REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni)

Fans of the car itself are also facing backlash. A New York Police Department cop who drives a replica of the show’s famous vehicle to work from time to time was told by supervisors to not park it at the Washington Heights precinct any longer, the local CBS affiliate reported.

“I would feel uncomfortable driving that,” one resident told CBS. “If I was a cop, I would feel very uncomfortable.”

“It doesn’t bother me either way, it really doesn’t,” a woman said.

NASCAR banned the use of the General Lee at events three years ago citing concerns over the car’s Confederate flag painted roof.

“Dukes of Hazzard” TV star and former Georgia Democratic Rep. Ben Jones, who played “Cooter” on the show told Fox News at the time, “It’s political correctness run amuck and I’m outraged.” He added, “It’s an insult to the heartland of America. (NASCAR) did this to please some board member who had some pressure put on him by some political group somewhere.”