Andy Griffith - Legendary Actor Andy Griffith Dies Aged 86

Griffith's legacy is substantial, but he was perhaps by far and away best known for his role as Sheriff in 'The Andy Griffith Show' which ran between 1960 and 1968. As well as co-starring the comedian Don Knotts, it also saw child actor Ron Howard make his breakthrough. None were more loved than Griffith however, who became synonymous with the oft-used popular TV role of the American sheriff. Griffith also enjoyed a renaissance in the 80s when starring as the title character in the hit US show 'Matlock', which ran from 1986 until 1995, this after years of struggling to follow up his success in the 60s.

As a musician, Griffith was a success too, with his 1996 album 'I Love To Tell The Story: 25 Timeless Hymns' being certified platinum by the Riaa. It was one of almost 20 albums Griffith released in his time, stretching back to 1964's 'Andy And Cleopatra'. Though not appearing on TV for some time, he'd been appearing in films still right up until 2008, where he starred in 'Play The Game' alongside Paul Campbell and MARLA SOKOLOFF.