Hollywood Reacts to Andy Griffith’s Passing
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CBS Photo Archive/Getty Images(NEW YORK) — Andy Griffith, the beloved actor who entertained television audiences for over half a century, died Tuesday morning, ABC News confirms. Now Hollywood, along with many actors who knew him best, are sharing their condolences.
The Recording Academy declared, “He was an immense talent and a true gift to the entertainment industry and will be greatly missed. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and fans.” Griffith won a Grammy for his gospel album I Love To Tell The Story — 25 Timeless Hymns.
TV Land, which regularly airs past episodes of The Andy Griffith Show, said in a statement, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend, Andy Griffith. His contributions to the entertainment industry and his role as Sheriff Andy Taylor will live forever in the minds and hearts of generations of television viewers past, present and yet to come. The entire TV Land staff will miss him and our thoughts go out to his family.”
The Andy Griffith Museum, located in his hometown of Mount Airy, North Carolina, released a statement saying, “Andy Griffith means the world to the arts everywhere — not just here in Mount Airy. His contribution to us, the Surry Arts Council, and the town of Mount Airy cannot be measured. …We know that Andy is at peace and that is what is important right now.”
Other celebrity reactions via Twitter:
Ron Howard: “Andy Griffith His pursuit of excellence and the joy he took in creating served generations & shaped my life I’m forever grateful RIP Andy”
Octavia Spencer: “RiP Andy Griffith!!! Sadness abounds!!!”
Larry King: “Sad to hear news of Andy Griffith’s death. He was a terrific actor, a great comedian, an endearing person. He lived a long & fruitful life…Andy made one of the greatest films ever: ‘A Face in the Crowd’ & also one of the best comedy albums: ‘What it Was, Was Football'”
Denise Richards: “we lost a legend…RIP Andy Griffith”
Alyssa Milano: “Rest in peace, Andy Griffith.”
Russell Simmons: “RIP Andy Griffith”
Michael McKean: “More than a face in the crowd: RIP Andy Griffith.”
Holly Robinson Peete: “Farewell to a TV ICON”
Eric Lange: “RIP Andy Griffith. My family spent hours and hours around the TV watching The Andy Griffith Show. Some great memories there. Thank you.”
Jackée Harry: “RIP Andy Griffith .. A True #NationalTreasure.”
Levar Burton: “My favorite Andy Griffith performance… A Face in the Crowd #mindblown Rest in Peace”
Ralph Macchio: “Take a moment and whistle “The Andy Griffith Show” theme today – finger snap optional – RIP Andy Griffith”
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