Gailard Sartain, beloved Tulsa-born actor and comedian, dies at 81

Gailard Sartain, a Tulsa native who found national fame through television, film and art, has died. He was 81.

The Church Studio confirmed Sartain’s death Tuesday, remembering him as "an extraordinary actor, artist, and comedian." The cause of death was not released.

Born Sept. 18, 1946, Sartain graduated from Will Rogers High School and the University of Tulsa before launching a local late-night sketch show, as Doctor Mazeppa Pompazoidi in Uncanny Film Festival and Camp Meeting, which aired on KOTV in the early 1970s.

The show drew the attention of Jim Halsey, the agent for country music star Roy Clark. In a previous interview, Sartain recounted their first conversation:

"How would you like to be on Hee Haw?" Sartain recalled Halsey asking.

"And I said, 'Yeah... get out! You know, next!' He said, 'No, I’m serious.'

'Well, who are you?'

He said, 'Well, I’m Jim Halsey. I represent Roy Clark and a number of other huge stars.'

And I said, 'I'm sorry, I ... really am ... I apologize. Is there any way we can start over?'"

Sartain joined Hee Haw in 1972, launching a prolific career that would include more than 60 roles in TV and film. He appeared in The Outsiders, Fried Green Tomatoes, The Buddy Holly Story, Mississippi Burning, and Ernest Goes to Jail, among others.

In addition to acting, Sartain was a talented visual artist. His work appeared on the cover of Leon Russell’s 1975 album Will O’ the Wisp.

Statement from Gailard's wife, Mary Jo Sartain:

“Gailard was a wonderful father, husband, grandfather, great grandfather, artist and actor. He brought joy to many just by hearing his name. He will leave a huge hole that I hope will be filled with everyone telling stories about him. Stories told with smiles on their faces.”

Tributes poured in following the news of his death. The Outsiders House Museum called Sartain "a proud Okie and one-of-a-kind talent," adding, "He’ll be dearly missed and always remembered. Stay gold, Gailard."

The OKPOP Museum described him as "a gifted actor, comedian, and artist” who “will be greatly missed."

The Church Studio also extended condolences to Sartain’s wife, Mary Jo, whom they called a "committed volunteer" at the studio.

Sartain’s legacy in Oklahoma’s cultural and entertainment history remains deep-rooted, from his Tulsa beginnings to the national stage.

Six in the Morning video from 6/20/2025: