Andy Griffith Barack Obama - H 2012
Getty ImagesFor generations, Andy Griffith was the quintessential small town American hero, his television town Mayberry a fictional stand-in for apple pie ideals. And now as the nation steps back to eulogize him in the wake of his passing at the age of 86, the President of the United States has released a statement in rememberance of the multi-talented actor.
PHOTOS: Andy Griffith, A Life in Pictures
“Michelle and I were saddened to hear about the passing of Andy Griffith this morning,” President Obama said late Tuesday. “A performer of extraordinary talent, Andy was beloved by generations of fans and revered by entertainers who followed in his footsteps. He brought us characters from Sheriff Andy Taylor to Ben Matlock, and in the process, warmed the hearts of Americans everywhere. Our thoughts and prayers are with Andy’s family.”
Griffith, who received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from George W. Bush in 2005, was an active Democrat who helped Obama on multiple occasions. He recorded a new take on his famed Andy Griffith Show in 2008 in support of Obama’s quest for the presidency, and in 2010, recorded a spot in support of the president’s health care reform act. He also publicly backed former North Carolina Governor Mike Easley, as well as current Governor Bev Purdue.
More from The Hollywood Reporter
-
![]()
-
![]()
-
The Last of Us
Bella Ramsey Says They’re Worried Pedro Pascal’s “Daddy” Narrative Has “Gone Too Far”
![]()
-
Writers Strike
Taika Waititi, Eva Longoria and Niecy Nash-Betts Talk Leading the Diversity Charge at The Hollywood Reporter’s Raising Our Voices Luncheon
![]()
-
Bruce Willis
Tallulah Willis Opens Up About Coping With Father Bruce Willis’ Dementia, Says She’s “Known Something Was Wrong for a Long Time”
![]()
-
Sharon Stone
Sharon Stone Discusses Challenges With Getting Work Since Her Stroke, Rails Against “Anti-Woke Bullsh**” at THR’s Raising Our Voices Event
![]()
