Andy Griffith was an American actor, comedian, television producer, and singer, known for his iconic roles in “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Matlock.” He was born on June 1, 1926, in Mount Airy, North Carolina. Griffith began his career in show business as a monologist and gained national attention in the 1950s with his recording of “What It Was Was Football.”
He went on to star in numerous television shows and movies, earning multiple awards and nominations for his work. On July 3, 2012, Griffith passed away at his home in Manteo, North Carolina, at the age of 86. His death came as a shock to many, and there was speculation as to why he was buried just four hours after he died.
It was later revealed that Griffith had a specific request for his burial arrangements. He wanted to be buried on his family farm in Roanoke Island, North Carolina, next to his beloved wife Cindi Knight. Griffith and Knight had been married since 1983, and she was his third wife.
According to a statement released by his family, Griffith had made his wishes known to them and had made arrangements with a funeral home in advance. He also requested a private funeral service attended only by close family and friends.
Griffith’s desire for a simple, private burial reflected his modest upbringing and values. He was a beloved figure in North Carolina, and his death was mourned by many. His legacy continues to live on through his timeless performances and the enduring impact he had on the entertainment industry.
In addition to his successful career in show business, Griffith was also a philanthropist and supported many causes throughout his life. He established the Andy Griffith Playhouse in his hometown of Mount Airy, which hosts performances and events to this day. He also donated generously to charities and causes he believed in, including the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame.
Andy Griffith had a tumultuous personal life, with three marriages and three divorces. In 1949, he married Barbara Edwards, but they divorced in 1972 after 23 years of marriage. Together, they had two children: a son named Sam and a daughter named Dixie. In 1973, Griffith married his second wife, Solica Cassuto, a Greek actress, but the marriage lasted only five years and they divorced in 1978.
Griffith’s third and final marriage was to Cindi Knight in 1983. They were married until Griffith’s death in 2012. The couple met when Knight played a role in an episode of “Matlock.” They lived on a 68-acre estate in Manteo, North Carolina, which Griffith named “The Old Home Place” in honor of his hit TV show, “The Andy Griffith Show.”
Griffith’s personal life was not without controversy. He had a reputation for being difficult to work with and was known to have feuds with some of his co-stars, including Don Knotts and Ron Howard. He also struggled with health problems throughout his life, including a heart attack in 1983 and hip surgery in 2007.
Despite his success and fame, Griffith remained humble and true to his roots. He once said, “I’m just a country boy who has been very lucky in life.” His legacy as an actor, comedian, and singer continues to inspire and entertain audiences today.
