Andy Griffith Dead At 86

Andy Griffith, who created not just one, but two iconic TV characters, has died at the age of 86.

The actor passed away at a Manteo, NC hospital Tuesday morning. He was then buried on the grounds of his farm just a few hours later.

Griffith starred as small-town sheriff Andy Taylor on "The Andy Griffith Show", which originally ran on CBS from 1960 to 1968. He also starred as defense attorney Ben Matlock on the '80's series "Matlock".

Ron Howard, who played Opie Taylor on "The Andy Griffith Show" and is now a top director, tweeted, "His pursuit of excellence and the joy he took in creating served generations & shaped my life I'm forever grateful RIP Andy."