Andy Griffith 1926-2012: Reactions and tributes

Andy Griffith has died at the age of 86 at his home in North Carolina.

The iconic actor starred in the classic television series The Andy Griffith Show and Matlock and also had the lead role in the 1957 film A Face in the Crowd.

Below are just some of the responses to the tragic news of Griffith's death from friends, colleagues and celebrities:

Ron Howard: "Andy Griffith His pursuit of excellence and the joy he took in creating served generations & shaped my life I'm forever grateful RIP Andy"

American Idol's Scotty McCreery: "RIP Andy Griffith.. We lost a legend today that provided me and my family some great quality time around the tv filled with some good laughs."

American Idol's Phillip Phillips: "Cant believe Andy Griffith passed away today. Loved his show. Prayers go out to the family. Use to watch it all the time with my papa."



Kings of Leon's Nathan Followill: "RIP Andy Griffith. One of my favourite tv actors of all time. I can hear him whistling the theme song all the way to the pearly gates."

Amy Grant: "From Team Amy - Go Rest High on that Mountain, Andy Griffith."

Rob Thomas: "just found out the ANDY GRIFFITH passed away. an american treasure. if you can, give a little whistle for him today."

Holly Robinson Peete: "Farewell to a TV ICON :( "

Russell Simmons: "RIP Andy Griffith"

Andie MacDowell: "staying positive and sharing joy ....Andy Griffith will always be remembered for bringing us all peace and wholesome entertainment."

Gwen Ifill: "RIP Andy Griffith. He was startling in Face In the Crowd"



Ralph Macchio: "Take a moment and whistle "The Andy Griffith Show" theme today - finger snap optional - RIP Andy Griffith"

Morgan Spurlock: "RIP Andy Griffith, 1 of our most underrated actors, watch him as Lonesome Rhodes in A Face in the Crowd, my fave movie."

Frank Caliendo: "RIP Andy Griffith. Sometimes I wish the world was as simple as it used to be in Mayberry."

David Boreanaz: "R.I.P. Andy Griffith."

Bruce Campbell: "Andy was awesome!"



Martha Plimpton: "Rest in Peace, Andy Griffith."

Jackee Harry: "RIP Andy Griffith .. A True #NationalTreasure."

Octavia Spencer: "RiP Andy Griffith!!! Sadness abounds!!!"

VH1: "Our deepest condolences go out to his friends and family. #RIP"

Jake Tapper: "As a half-North Carolinian, i'm especially saddened by the news about Andy Griffith. Real pride in Tarheel Country about favourite son. RIP"

Denise Richards: "we lost a legend...RIP Andy Griffith."

Darryl Worley: "We'll miss Andy Griffith!"