Gailard Sartain of ‘Hee Haw’ Dies at 78: Costars Share Their Fond Memories

Gailard Sartain, best known for his comedic role on Hee Haw and his performance as The Big Bopper in 1978’s The Buddy Holly Story, has died. The star, who was 78 years old, passed away on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 after a long illness. His death was confirmed on Facebook by The Church Studio, a recording studio in Tulsa, Oklahoma where his wife often volunteers.

They wrote, “We are saddened by the loss of Gailard Sartain, an extraordinary actor, artist, and comedian. His late night visits in the 1970s to the studio after filming Mazeppa are fondly remembered. Gailard’s artwork is showcased on the cover of Leon Russell’s 1975 album ‘Will O’ the Wisp.’ Our condolences are with Mary Jo, Gailard’s wife and a committed volunteer at The Church Studio.”