Andy Griffith Net Worth: How Rich Is He?

Andy Griffith Net Worth

$25 Million

Andy Griffith Net Worth

Andy Griffith, a much-loved American actor and singer, built up a significant fortune of $25 million before his passing. In today’s money, that’s around $66 million when adjusted for inflation. Griffith made a lasting impact on the entertainment world, especially with his unforgettable roles in “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Matlock.” These performances endeared him to audiences everywhere, solidifying his place as a cultural icon. Griffith’s charm and talent touched the hearts of viewers across generations, making him a household name. Sadly, he passed away in July 2012, but his legacy lives on, touching the lives of fans of all ages.

Andy Griffith Wiki

Andy Griffith Early Life

Andy Samuel Griffith was born on June 1, 1926, in Mount Airy, North Carolina, to Carl Lee Griffith and Geneva Griffith. Due to financial constraints, Griffith lived with relatives until his parents could afford their own home. Despite their modest means, Griffith developed a deep passion for music from an early age, which would shape his future career in music, film, and television.

During his time at Mount Airy High School, Griffith discovered his love for acting through participation in the school’s drama program. He landed roles in various productions, including Paul Green’s “The Lost Colony,” where he portrayed Sir Walter Raleigh.

After high school, Griffith pursued a pre-divinity program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Despite his studies, he remained active in drama and musical theater, eventually graduating with a degree in music in 1949. Following graduation, Griffith taught high school music for three years before deciding to pursue a career in entertainment.

Andy Griffith Rise to Stardom

Griffith’s portrayal of Sheriff Andy Taylor in “The Andy Griffith Show” made him a household name. Running from 1960 to 1968, the show became a beloved classic, largely due to Griffith’s ability to blend humor with warmth and sincerity. His depiction of the wise and friendly sheriff struck a chord with viewers, earning him widespread praise and establishing him as a television icon.

Following the success of “The Andy Griffith Show,” Griffith continued to charm audiences in his role as Ben Matlock in the legal drama series “Matlock.” Airing from 1986 to 1995, the show showcased Griffith’s versatility as an actor and solidified his reputation as a television legend. Throughout his career, Griffith’s talent for creating memorable characters and delivering compelling performances left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

Andy Griffith Film And Television Career

After gaining recognition as a monologist, Griffith starred in Ira Levin’s one-hour teleplay “No Time for Sergeants,” a role that later expanded into a full-length theatrical version on Broadway. Despite earning a 1956 Tony Award nomination for “Distinguished Supporting or Featured Dramatic Actor,” Griffith lost to Ed Begley. This marked the beginning of his lifelong collaboration with Don Knotts, who co-starred in the film version of “No Time for Sergeants” (1958).

Griffith further solidified his reputation as an actor with his role in the critically acclaimed 1957 film “A Face in the Crowd” and his iconic portrayal of Sheriff Andy Taylor in “The Andy Griffith Show,” alongside a young Ron Howard. Throughout the ’70s, Griffith appeared in various TV films and took on his first villainous role in “Pray for the Wildcats.”

Although Griffith left “The Andy Griffith Show” in 1968, he launched his production company, Andy Griffith Enterprises, in 1972. Despite initial setbacks with shows like “Headmaster,” “The New Andy Griffith Show,” and “The Yeagers,” Griffith continued to work in television and film, co-starring with Jeff Bridges in “Hearts of the West” and alongside Tom Berenger in “Rustlers’ Rhapsody.”

After a health scare resulting in temporary leg paralysis, Griffith made a triumphant return to television as the titular character in “Matlock,” which ran successfully from 1986 to 1995. His portrayal of the Southern lawyer, Ben Matlock, earned him a People’s Choice Award in 1987 and solidified his status as a television icon.

Griffith’s later works included appearances in the feature film “Waitress” alongside Keri Russell and his last leading role in the romantic comedy “Play the Game.”

Andy Griffith Personal Life

Andy Griffith married Barbara Bray Edwards on August 22, 1949, and they welcomed two adopted children, Andy Samuel Griffith Jr. and Dixie Nann Griffith, into their family. Sadly, their marriage ended in divorce in 1972.

Griffith found love again with Solica Cassuto, a Greek actress, and they married in 1973. However, their union ended in 1981.

It was Griffith’s third marriage to Cindi Knight that brought lasting happiness. They tied the knot on April 12, 1983, and their love story blossomed during the filming of “Murder in Coweta County.”

On July 3, 2012, Griffith passed away from a heart attack at the age of 86, surrounded by the familiar landscapes of Manteo, Roanoke Island, North Carolina, where he spent his final days. He was laid to rest in the family cemetery on Roanoke Island, leaving behind a legacy of entertainment and cherished memories.

Andy Griffith Political Life

Griffith had the opportunity to step into the political arena by considering a run against Jesse Helms for the U.S. Senate in North Carolina. However, he ultimately decided not to pursue this path. Nevertheless, in October 2008, Griffith joined forces with Ron Howard to endorse Barack Obama’s presidential campaign for Funny Or Die, showcasing his ongoing interest in political issues.

Throughout his life, Griffith was known for his support of Democratic candidates, often using his television presence to endorse figures like North Carolina Governors Mike Easley and Bev Perdue. He even spoke at their inauguration ceremonies, highlighting his commitment to civic engagement.

Beyond his advocacy for political candidates, Griffith also lent his star power to advertisements about Medicare in 2010, underscoring his enduring commitment to public service and social causes. Through his involvement in various political and social initiatives, Griffith left a lasting impact beyond the entertainment world, using his influence to champion causes close to his heart.

Controversy Surrounded Cindi Griffith, Andy Griffith’s Wife, Following His Passing

Cindi, Andy Griffith’s wife, inherited a significant sum, estimated to be around $30 million or more, after his passing. However, her decision to seek a permit for demolishing Griffith’s North Carolina home stirred controversy among locals and fans alike.

The announcement of the demolition plan was met with surprise and disappointment from many. Ira David Smith, a producer and close friend of Griffith, expressed his sadness, stating, “I always assumed the property would eventually be preserved and open to the public.” He highlighted the property’s beauty and the countless memories associated with it.

The debate sparked by the decision to demolish Griffith’s home centered on the preservation of cultural heritage and the importance of honoring the legacies of beloved figures like Griffith. Despite differing opinions, one thing remained clear: Griffith’s profound impact on the community and the entertainment industry warranted the preservation of his legacy for future generations to cherish.

Andy Griffith Financial Success

Griffith’s impressive net worth didn’t just come from acting. His active involvement in producing his shows, along with a successful music career, greatly contributed to his wealth. Besides being a celebrated actor, Griffith showcased his musical talents as a gifted singer, releasing several albums over the years.

One highlight of his music career was winning a Grammy Award for the album “I Love to Tell the Story: 25 Timeless Hymns.” This not only solidified Griffith’s reputation as a talented performer but also boosted his financial success. Through his diverse career, Griffith showcased his exceptional talent and left a lasting impact on both the entertainment industry and the music world.

Andy Griffith Awards and Recognitions

Andy Griffith’s remarkable contributions to the entertainment world were widely recognized through various prestigious awards and accolades. Among his notable achievements, Griffith received an Emmy Award for his exceptional performance in “The Andy Griffith Show,” a beloved classic that remains a timeless favorite among audiences.

In addition to his Emmy win, Griffith was also honored with a Grammy Award for his gospel album “I Love to Tell the Story: 25 Timeless Hymns.” This Grammy recognition highlighted not only his acting prowess but also his remarkable musical talent, showcasing his versatility as an artist.

Furthermore, Griffith’s enduring impact on the entertainment industry was commemorated with a star on the illustrious Hollywood Walk of Fame. This esteemed recognition solidified his status as a legendary figure in Hollywood, honoring his significant contributions to film, television, and music.

Through his exceptional performances and undeniable talent, Andy Griffith left an indelible mark on the entertainment world, earning him a place among the most revered icons in the history of show business.

Quick Facts

• Andy Griffith was born on June 1, 1926, in Mount Airy, North Carolina, to Carl Lee Griffith and Geneva Griffith.
• He attended Mount Airy High School, where he actively participated in the drama program.
• Griffith earned a Tony Award nomination for his role in “No Time for Sergeants,” marking a significant achievement in his early career.
• Transitioning into television, Griffith became renowned for his roles in iconic shows like “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Matlock.”
• Throughout his life, Griffith was married three times, first to Barbara Bray Edwards, then to Solica Cassuto, and finally to Cindi Knight.
• Sadly, Griffith passed away on July 3, 2012, at the age of 86, due to a heart attack, leaving behind a rich legacy in the entertainment industry.

FAQS

Q. When and where was Andy Griffith born?

Andy Griffith came into the world on June 1, 1926, in the charming town of Mount Airy, nestled in the hills of North Carolina.

Q. What notable television shows did Andy Griffith star in?

Andy Griffith graced our screens with his talent in unforgettable television classics like “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Matlock.”

Q. How many times was Andy Griffith married?

Andy Griffith walked down the aisle three times, starting with Barbara Bray Edwards, followed by Solica Cassuto, and finally finding lasting love with Cindi Knight.

Q. When did Andy Griffith pass away?

Andy Griffith bid farewell to this world on July 3, 2012, at the age of 86, succumbing to a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy that continues to touch hearts worldwide.

Conclsuion

Andy Griffith’s journey from humble beginnings in North Carolina to becoming a cherished television icon is a testament to his remarkable talent and enduring impact on the entertainment world. His warmth and charisma endeared him to audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark through iconic roles in “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Matlock.” Though he left us in 2012, Andy Griffith’s legacy lives on, reminding us of the timeless charm and talent of one of America’s most beloved actors.