Renowned actor, comedian, and artist Gailard Sartain has passed away at the age of 78. The news was confirmed by The Church Studio on Tuesday, remembering him as “an extraordinary actor, artist, and comedian.” Born in Tulsa in 1946, Sartain rose to fame with his local late-night sketch show “Uncanny Film Festival and Camp Meeting,” which aired on KOTV in the early 1970s. His big break came when he joined the popular country music show Hee Haw in 1972.
Sartain’s prolific career included more than 60 roles in TV and film, including notable appearances in The Outsiders, Fried Green Tomatoes, and Ernest Goes to Jail. He was also a talented visual artist, with his work featured on the cover of Leon Russell’s 1975 album Will O’ the Wisp.
Tributes poured in following Sartain’s death, with many calling him “a proud Okie” and “one-of-a-kind talent.” His legacy remains deep-rooted in Oklahoma’s cultural and entertainment history. Sartain is survived by his wife, Mary Jo, who was remembered as a “committed volunteer” at The Church Studio.
Source: https://www.newson6.com/story/6855569a82530a3a9244c668/gailard-sartain-beloved-tulsa-born-actor-and-comedian-dies-at-78