Gailard Sartain has died aged 78

Tributes have poured in for the actor, with one fan saying online: "I owe much of my warped sense of humour to watching his Uncanny Film Festival and Camp Meeting in high school and college.

"His wacky comedy will always make me smile. What a legacy!"

Gailard's death earlier this month was confirmed by his family and the Tulsa World, though no cause of death has been made public.

His passing comes just months after that of his Ernest co-star Bill Byrge, who died in January aged 89.

Among the other tributes to the star, one fan said on Facebook: "Rest in peace, Gailard Sartain."

Another added: "Heartbroken to hear of the passing of Gailard Sartain - beloved actor, comedian, and artist. Gailard brought warmth and heart to every role he played. A proud Okie and one-of-a-kind talent, he'll be dearly missed and always remembered. Stay gold, Gailard."

Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Gailard began his entertainment career on the comedy and country music variety show Hee Haw, appearing for nearly two decades from the early 1970s.

His breakout on screen led to more than 70 film and TV credits, including Mississippi Burning, The Grifters, Elizabethtown and Ali.

His first credited film role was in 1978's The Buddy Holly Story, in which he portrayed musician Jerry 'The Big Bopper' Richardson opposite Gary Busey.

He later appeared in The Jerk with Steve Martin and in Francis Ford Coppola's The Outsiders, where he shared scenes with C. Thomas Howell, Rob Lowe and Tom Cruise.

Gailard also featured in the Jim Varney-led Ernest film franchise, including appearances with Bill Byrge, whose character Chuck was paired with Byrge's Bobby.

The Church Studio in Tulsa, where Gailard would visit after filming his late-night show Mazeppa, also issued a statement on his passing.

It said: "We are saddened by the loss of Gailard Sartain, an extraordinary actor, artist, and comedian. "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."

Misty Rowe, 75, who appeared alongside Gailard on Hee Haw Honeys, said: "God bless you, Gailard Sartain. You were my brother on Hee Haw Honeys and my friend on Hee Haw for 19 years! I will never forget you."

After retiring from acting more than 20 years ago, Gailard was frequently asked about his long career.

In a 2017 interview, he reflected: "Not every single thing I did (made me happy.)

"But, for the most part, I'm happy about it."