Andy Griffith Biography, Spouse, Cause of Death, Children, Movies. Andy Griffith’s name is synonymous with television’s golden period. He was a liked and respected figure in the entertainment world for more than half a century. He was an actor, comedian, and producer who rose to fame in the 1950s.
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Andy Griffith Biography
Griffith was born in Mount Airy, North Carolina, a small hamlet that inspired the fictional town of Mayberry in his successful TV show “The Andy Griffith Show.” Griffith attended the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill after serving in the United States Marine Corps during WWII. It was there that he discovered his love of acting and decided to pursue a career in the industry.
Griffith rose to prominence as a stand-up comedian in the 1950s, appearing on “The Ed Sullivan Show” and “The Steve Allen Show.” He also featured on Broadway in a number of plays, including “No Time for Sergeants,” which was later made into a film starring Griffith.
However, it was his portrayal of Sheriff Andy Taylor in “The Andy Griffith Show” that secured his place in television history. The sitcom, which aired from 1960 to 1968, was set in the fictional town of Mayberry and followed Sheriff Taylor and his inept deputy, Barney Fife, on their escapades (played by Don Knotts). The show was hailed for its clean humour and strong moral lessons, and it is still considered a classic to this day.
Griffith continued to act after “The Andy Griffith Show” completed its run, appearing in a number of television shows and films. He also returned to his origins as a performer, releasing several hit gospel and country records.
Griffith was a philanthropist in addition to his acting career, actively supporting a number of charities and causes throughout his life. He was also a strong advocate for education, founding the Andy and Barbara Griffith Scholarship Fund to assist young people from his hometown of Mount Airy in affording to attend college.
Andy Griffith Spouse
Andy Griffith had three children and was married three times. Barbara Edwards, whom he married in 1949, was his first wife. Andy Jr. and Dixie were the couple’s two children. Griffith and Edwards split up in 1972.
Griffith’s second marriage was to actress Solica Cassuto. The pair married in 1973 but divorced after a few years.
Griffith married Cindi Knight for the third and final time in 1983. Griffith died in 2012, and the couple remained together. Sam was their only kid together. Griffith had several grandchildren and great-grandchildren in addition to his three children.
Andy Griffith cause of death: How Did Andy Griffith Die?
Andy Griffith died at the age of 86 on July 3, 2012. A heart attack was the reason of his death. Griffith had a history of cardiac disease and had bypass surgery in 2000.
Griffith’s family issued a statement upon his passing, saying, “His love for acting and music was only surpassed by his love for his family and friends.” Griffith is survived by his wife, Cindi Knight, and his three children, Andy Jr., Dixie, and Sam.
Andy Griffith movies
Below are Andy Griffith movies from 1957;
- No Time for Sergeants” (1958)
- “The Music Man” (1962)
- “Angel in My Pocket” (1969)
- “A Face in the Crowd” (1957)
- “The Andy Griffith Show” (1960-1968)
- “Matlock” (1986-1995)
- “Dynasty” (1981-1989)