Premiering in 1960, The Andy Griffith Show is one of America’s most iconic television series, famous for its peaceful setting in the town of Mayberry and its gentle moral lessons. In addition to the main characters such as Andy Taylor, Barney Fife, Opie Taylor and Aunt Bee, the show’s lasting success also comes from its special guests – who, although appearing in only a few episodes, left a deep impression on the audience.
Below is a summary of the most memorable guests on the series, along with interesting behind-the-scenes information about their roles in the overall spirit of Mayberry.
1. Denver Pyle as Briscoe Darling
Denver Pyle plays Briscoe Darling, the tough and quiet father of the Darling family living in the mountains. Briscoe represents a type of mountain man who is honest, old-fashioned but full of emotion. The episodes in which he appeared were often associated with folk music and the funny situations between “mountain people” and “town people”.
Notably, the band led by his son – The Darling Boys – was the real-life band The Dillards.
2. The Dillards as The Darling Boys
The Dillards – a famous bluegrass band – played the role of Briscoe’s sons. They were quiet, often nodding or staying silent, but when they sang, they moved the whole of Mayberry. Their songs “Dooley” and “There Is a Time” became the most beautiful musical moments in the entire series.
3. Howard Morris as Ernest T. Bass
Ernest T. Bass was a wild, unorganized mountain character who often caused chaos in Mayberry by throwing rocks through windows or disrupting town events. Although he only appeared in 5 episodes, Howard Morris’ character became iconic thanks to his bold and unique acting.
4. Allan Melvin in many supporting roles
Allan Melvin was one of the most familiar guest stars, often appearing in supporting roles such as Sergeant Charlie Hackett, Fred Plummer and others. He was an experienced comedian and always brought a charming touch to each role.
He later became famous for his role as Sam Franklin in The Brady Bunch.
5. Jean Carson as Daphne (Fun Girls)
Daphne was one of two members of the “Fun Girls” – women living in the city, who often visited Mayberry and caused emotional trouble for Andy and Barney. Jean Carson’s characteristic husky voice and the phrase “Hello Doll” became memorable in every appearance.
Episodes featuring “Fun Girls” reflected the contrast between the traditional lifestyle of a small town and the liberal lifestyle of the city.
6. Betty Lynn as Thelma Lou
Thelma Lou was Barney Fife’s longtime girlfriend, appearing in 26 episodes. The character was beloved for her gentleness, loyalty, and rare tolerance. Although not a main character, Thelma Lou was an indispensable part of Barney’s inner world.
Interestingly, actress Betty Lynn later moved to Mount Airy – Andy Griffith’s real hometown – and lived there for the rest of her life.
7. Jack Dodson as Howard Sprague
Howard Sprague was a town official, with a strict, sometimes silly lifestyle, but always trying to fit in with the community. This character represented the middle-class intellectual in 1960s American society. Jack Dodson portrayed Howard with charming awkwardness and endearing.
Howard also appeared in the sequel Mayberry R.F.D.
8. Aneta Corsaut as Helen Crump
Helen Crump originally appeared in only one episode as a strict teacher. However, thanks to the love of the audience, she became Andy Taylor’s lover, then future wife. Helen is the model of a smart, calm and knowledgeable woman.
Aneta Corsaut later became an important part of the later seasons of the show, and also had a close relationship with Andy Griffith in real life.
9. George Lindsey as Goober Pyle
Goober is Gomer Pyle’s cousin, introduced after Jim Nabors left the show. Initially a guest, but thanks to George Lindsey’s natural and charming acting style, Goober quickly became a main character.
A kind and clumsy mechanic, Goober brings a lot of laughter and is a symbol of honesty and lovable simplicity.
10. Other notable cameos
Barbara Eden (before her I Dream of Jeannie fame) appears as a stage actress.
Don Rickles, the famous comedian, plays a con man in a special episode.
Ruta Lee, appears as a seductive woman who makes Barney “flutter”.
Richard Keith, the child actor who made his name in I Love Lucy, appears as a young musician.
