Sad news in North Carolina, the South, our country and beyond. Reports say Andy Griffith passed away today.
The Andy Griffith Show had something like 240 episodes. I’m among the legion of fans that have watched them all many times. Griffith was always the friendly and integrity-strong sheriff, solving the mess Barney got into, much laughter along the way.
I also watched Madlock, where Griffith successfully defended his clients in Atlanta with his slow style and blue suit. Of this role, Griffith said it was his favorite. That statement puzzled many Andy Griffith Show fans, but it’s probably something only actors can understand and appreciate.
Before those two popular shows, which re-ran for many years on WTBS and syndicate stations, Griffith made a name for himself in No Time for Sergeants. Remember when Don Knotts handed him the two rings and asked him to figure out a way to separate them? Andy, playing a strong hick Army recruit, ended up pulling them apart. I laughed so hard my tummy hurt.
Griffith also recorded the funny record, “What it Was Was Football,” and made commercials for Ritz Cracker (“Good cracker”).
Andy Griffith will be missed. Mayberry, and all of us who loved him weep.
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