The TV world has lost one of its most beloved actors. Jim Nabors, known best as Gomer Pyle, has died at the age of 87. The actor debuted as Gomer on “The Andy Griffith Show” in December 1962 and would go on to play the character on both that show and his own sitcom. And then, at the height of the character’s popularity, Nabors retired him.
“It got down to what you think you want to be: an actor or an entertainer. I want to entertain,” Nabors said in 1969. “I don’t think I’m much of an actor. The only part I ever played was Gomer. I’m the most surprised person around that I’m successful anyway.”
Nabors went on to host “The Jim Nabors Hour,” a variety show, for two seasons before taking on movie roles in including “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” and “Stroker Ace.” Outside of the big and small screens, Nabors showed off his beautiful baritone singing voice recorded more than two dozen albums.
Nabors is survived by his husband, Stan Cadwallader. The couple married in 2013 after nearly four decades together.
- In the wake of his death, celebrities including Carol Burnett have begun paying tribute to Nabors. “Jim and I remained close friends for 52 years,” she explains. “He was the godfather of my daughter, Jody. Every year he was always the first guest on my variety show. I considered him my ‘good luck charm.’ My heart is heavy. I’m grateful he was a large part of my life. I miss him. I love him.”
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
