Andy Griffith Dead At 86 (DETAILS)

Posted July 3, 2012 by Rachel Samara for Global Grind Staff

America's Sheriff Andy Griffith died at the the age of 86.

Andy Griffith, beloved television star, has died at the age of 86.

Earlier today, emergency medical crews responded to the North Carolina home of Griffith, according to Dare County Sheriff J.D. "Doug" Doughtie.

Former UNC President Bill Friday confirmed Andy Griffith died this morning in Dare County. Friday, a close friend of the actor, confirmed the news to WITN News.

Griffith is best known as an actor, director, producer, Grammy Award-winning Southern-gospel singer, and writer. He garnered fame in the starring role in director Elia Kazan's 1957 film, A Face in the Crowd before he became better known for his television roles, playing the lead characters in The Andy Griffith Show from 1960-1968 and in the 1986–1995 legal drama, Matlock.

Griffith was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by US President George W. Bush on November 9, 2005. We send our thoughts and prayers to Andy's family and friends at this time.

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