Andy Griffith – We Remember the TV Pioneer (VIDEO)
As previously reported, Andy Griffith passed away on Tuesday at his North Carolina home. The beloved actor was 86.
We thought we would take a moment to remember the TV pioneer, and to share some reactions from those who loved and admired him.
Andy is best known for his show, the aptly titled The Andy Griffith Show, and his role as defence lawyer on Matlock. Viewers fell in love with his portrayal of the folksy cop.
“His love of creating, the joy he took in it whether it was drama or comedy or his music, was inspiring to grow up around,” said director Ron Howard, who played Opie Taylor on the show.
“He felt he was always working in service of an audience he really respected and cared about,” adds Howard. “He was a great influence on me. His passing is sad. But he lived and a great rich life.”
The Andy Griffith Show was No. 4 in the ratings in its first year, and became No. 1 in its final year in 1968. The show continues to live on through reruns. When asked why the show was and is still a success, Andy attributed its enduring charm to “kindness.”
“We — everyone one on the show — have a real sense of community, of kindness, toward one another,” revealed Griffith. “The basic rule by which we live comes through… the kindness comes through.”
His sense of kindness was an integral part to his life and work. Here are what some stars and fans had to say about Andy:
“Michelle and I were saddened to hear about the passing of Andy Griffith this morning,” reveals President Barack Obama. “A performer of extraordinary talent, Andy was beloved by generations of fans and revered by entertainers who followed in his footsteps. He brought us characters from Sheriff Andy Taylor to Ben Matlock, and in the process, warmed the hearts of Americans everywhere. Our thoughts and prayers are with Andy’s family.”
“An actor who never looked like he was acting, a moral compass who saved as many souls as most preachers, and an entertainer who put smiles on more faces than almost anyone; this was as successful a life as is pretty much possible,” said country singer Brad Paisley. “Andy Griffith made the world a better place, and I was so proud to call him a friend.”
“Sad to hear news of Andy Griffith’s death,” tweeted Larry King the former CNN talk show host. “He was a terrific actor, a great comedian, an endearing person. He lived a long & fruitful life.”
“Andy was a person of incredibly strong Christian faith and was prepared for the day he would be called Home to his Lord,” reassures Cindi Griffith, Andy Griffith’s wife.
Goodbye, Andy. You will be missed.
