TULSA, Okla. — Brent Douglas, the legendary Tulsa radio personality best known for his outrageous and unforgettable character, Roy D. Mercer, has passed away early Saturday morning. His death has left fans, friends, and families mourning the loss of one of KMOD's most cherished on-air voices. Douglas’s passing was announced on KMOD’s social media channels with heartfelt tributes celebrating his life and humor. 'It is with a heavy heart,' the post read, 'that we share the passing of Brent Douglas, Roy D. Mercer, who is one of the patriarchs of KMOD.'
KMOD's tribute noted, 'Brent’s impact continues to be felt every day, not just on KMOD, but on any social media platform.' The radio community and fans are remembering Douglas not only for his contributions to radio but also for the laughter he brought to countless lives during his storied career.
Douglas, along with his long-time partner Phil Stone, crafted the iconic morning show on KMOD, which became synonymous with the station for nearly three decades. Beginning their radio adventure together in 1985, the duo focused on creating fun and engaging content for their audience. Douglas famously voiced the prank-calling character Roy D. Mercer, who would demand compensation for fictitious injustices with booming threats and hilarious banter.
The character of Roy became so popular and beloved, it spurred the creation of over 20 comedy albums. According to Douglas’s 2020 interview, the prank call antics sold roughly six million units by 2000, with one of their albums even certified gold. Douglas reflected fondly on the universal appeal of Roy D. Mercer, stating, 'I think everybody, especially around here, knows somebody like Roy. They know somebody like him or they are relatives of somebody like him. Basically, I think it’s the universality of the character. People in New York get it. People in Florida get it. People around the world get it.'
Brent Douglas was born and raised in Oklahoma, and his comedic prowess was influenced by variety shows and local comedians. He initially pursued a career as a pharmacist and worked at various pharmacies before shifting his focus to radio, where he found his true calling. His transition began with a humorous call during KMOD’s 'Bad Joke Wednesday,' after which program director Charlie West sought him out for his talent.
Once established on-air, Douglas and Stone created memorable bits such as the 'Greek Theater,' which showcased their comedic chemistry and set the stage for their future success. Their comedic style, which incorporated risqué humor and relatable anecdotes, drew local and national attention, crafting one of the most memorable partnerships in radio history.
Throughout his career, Douglas’s signature prank calls often had listeners doubled over with laughter. A notable example involved professional wrestler Bill Goldberg, whom Roy D. Mercer prank called over an outrageous complaint involving autographing his stepson’s bald head. The punchlines would often come thick and fast, which Douglas and Stone found difficult to contain during their performances. 'There are several times when we cracked up,' Douglas recalled. 'We would just fall apart.'
The popularity of Roy D. Mercer eventually led to collaborations with talents across various media platforms, including country music connections and even roles in films. Fans admired not just the character but Douglas's ability to bring him to life with personality and charm. Famous supporters included legends like Dusty Hill of ZZ Top and actor Billy Bob Thornton, who once invited Douglas to appear alongside him in the film 'Daddy and Them.'
After the passing of his beloved friend and radio partner Phil Stone in 2012, Douglas felt he could no longer continue portraying Roy D. Mercer. 'When Phil passed, I couldn’t do it without him,' he said during his 2020 interview. 'It wouldn’t have been the same.'
Colleagues and contemporaries alike recognized the significant imprint Douglas made throughout his career. Mary Moore, who co-hosted with the duo from 2005 to 2008, shared fond memories of Douglas's off-air antics, such as his unexpected yoga poses during breaks. 'Brent went through a time when he was really interested in yoga...that's how I see him now,' she said.
Lynn Hernandez, another KMOD personality, reminisced on the creativity and unpredictability they brought to radio, highlighting their ability to transport listeners to whimsical worlds with their engaging segments.
Douglas officially retired, shifting his focus to spending quality time with family and engaging in hobbies like golf. Reflecting on retirement, he humorously noted, 'I’ve become this old curmudgeon. You look around and all of a sudden you are an old man.' But the essence of Roy D. Mercer, with all his quirks and humor, will undoubtedly live on through the laughter he shared over the airwaves.
Brent Douglas's legacy will remain firmly planted within the hearts of listeners, and the laughter he cultivated through his work continues to echo across the community and beyond. With tributes pouring in from fans old and new, it’s clear the world has lost not just a voice, but one filled with joy, storytelling, and genuine humanity.