A lot of class, talent, and humor has left the world. Sadly, Andy Griffith has died at 86 years old. Andy Griffith, and The Andy Griffith Show are a few of the main reasons Hollywood Yesterday exists. Along with other beloved classics such as I Love Lucy and Beverly Hillbillies and other classic stars such as Audrey Hepburn and James Dean – Andy Griffith and his legendary show have been constants in my life…. for as long as I’ve lived.
It’s love for all of these that prompted me to create Hollywood Yesterday – to keep them forever alive and forever smiling.
In addition to his beloved role as Sheriff Andy Taylor in “The Andy Griffith Show” (1960 to 1968) Griffith also played another legendary television character – criminal defense lawyer Matlock from 1986 to 1995. The actor was honored with the the TV Land Legend Award in 2004, and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by George W. Bush in 2005.
Andy Griffith was also a very talented singer and musician. In fact, his 1996 album “I Love to Tell the Story: 24 Timeless Hymns” went platinum.
After learning of Griffith’s death, actor/director Ron Howard (“Opie”) had the following to say on Twitter: “Andy Griffith His pursuit of excellence and the joy he took in creating served generations & shaped my life I’m forever grateful RIP Andy.”
The world’s a better place because one Andy Griffith lived – and now Heaven is, without a doubt, filled with even more laughter.
Rest in Peace.