For almost two decades, the renowned comedy figure Ron Sexton enchanted audiences with his alter ego, Donnie Baker, regularly gracing the airwaves of The Bob & Tom Show, a widely broadcast radio talk show across much of the contiguous United States. However, with Sexton’s untimely passing on July 21, 2023, fans were left mourning the conclusion of Donnie’s iconic calls.
The abrupt loss of Sexton came as a profound shock to admirers and the comedy community alike, but the impact was most deeply felt by his close-knit circle of friends and family. The unexpected demise of the seemingly healthy 52-year-old left many perplexed, awaiting the results of a pending autopsy, which prolonged the period of uncertainty for those closest to him. As speculation swirled regarding the circumstances surrounding Sexton’s passing, clarity was not reached until September 2023, when the autopsy findings shed light on the situation. This unveiled the distressing truth about what transpired with Ron Sexton, the talent behind the beloved Donnie Baker persona.
Who Was Donnie Baker?
Rox Sexton, an American comedian, gained fame for his portrayal of the chaotic yet endearing Donnie Baker on The Bob and Tom Show. Sexton attributed much of his comedic prowess to his upbringing as an only child, spending significant time alone cultivating imaginary companions, a skill he adeptly utilized in crafting his memorable characters. Proficient as an impressionist, Sexton frequented The Bob & Tom Show with a repertoire of impressions, including Floyd the Trucker and Kenny Tarmac, yet it was the character of Donnie Baker that soared in popularity. An embodiment of a Kentucky redneck, Baker was renowned for perpetually having a boat for sale and coining catchphrases like “State Law!”, “I’ll say it right to his face,” and “I swear to God.” His quirky persona seamlessly integrated into The Bob and Tom Show, captivating fans instantly.
Sexton’s attachment to the character led him to form a comedy band around Donnie, bringing the persona to life on stage in a musical comedy act called Donnie Baker and the Pork Pistols. Touring extensively, Sexton attributed his popularity to the relatable nature of Donnie, describing him as a character everyone encountered in some form in their lives.
Additionally, Sexton ventured into YouTube, releasing a series of videos, with “Missing Boat During Shark Week with Donnie Baker” garnering over 4 million views. In a separate incident, Sexton made local headlines in January following a nearly fatal drive-by shooting in Indianapolis, Indiana, allegedly involving a dispute with a woman’s husband. The charges against the husband were dropped following Sexton’s demise.
How Did Donnie Baker Pass Away?
Despite personal challenges, Sexton appeared to be at the pinnacle of his career, touring extensively and making appearances nationwide. However, on July 21st, in Harrison, Ohio, Sexton was discovered deceased in a hotel room. Initially, the cause of death remained a mystery until September 2023, when the coroner’s report, revealed by the local station WLTW 5, attributed his passing to fentanyl and ethanol (alcohol) poisoning.
At the age of 52, Sexton, in the midst of his touring schedule, tragically succumbed to this fatal combination. The morning after Sexton’s passing, Tom of The Bob & Tom Show released a statement acknowledging Sexton’s impact on the program. Sexton’s family also expressed their profound sorrow, stating, “To most of you, he was Donnie Baker, but to us, he was Ron and Dad.”
Substance abuse among celebrities sadly remains a prevalent issue, claiming many lives prematurely in the entertainment industry. Rox Sexton will be remembered for his comedic legacy and the personal connections he cherished with those closest to him. His comedic creation of Donnie Baker will endure through The Bob and Tom Show and in the cherished memories of his devoted fans.
