Jim Nabors — best known for his work on The Andy Griffith Show and Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. — has died. The actor, singer and comedian passed away at his home in Hawaii on Thursday (November 30), his partner Stan Cadwallader confirmed to the Associated Press. Nabors was 87.
Born in Alabama in 1930, Nabors was first discovered by Andy Griffith while performing at a cabaret club in Santa Monica, CA. He made his debut on The Andy Griffith Show in 1962 as Southern mechanic Gomer Pyle.
The character's popularity led to Nabors starring in spinoff series Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C., which ran for five seasons. He also appeared in films such as The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Stroker Ace and Cannonball Run II, as well as on television programs The Carol Burnett Show, The Love Boat and The Julie Andrews Hour.
As a vocalist, Nabors' recording catalogue includes upwards of 28 albums. He married Cadwallader in 2013.
Born in Alabama in 1930, Nabors was first discovered by Andy Griffith while performing at a cabaret club in Santa Monica, CA. He made his debut on The Andy Griffith Show in 1962 as Southern mechanic Gomer Pyle.
The character's popularity led to Nabors starring in spinoff series Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C., which ran for five seasons. He also appeared in films such as The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Stroker Ace and Cannonball Run II, as well as on television programs The Carol Burnett Show, The Love Boat and The Julie Andrews Hour.
As a vocalist, Nabors' recording catalogue includes upwards of 28 albums. He married Cadwallader in 2013.