Don Knotts - An Appreciation
Don Knotts, TV's Lovable Nerd, Dies at 81 - Yahoo! News: "Don Knotts, the skinny, lovable nerd who kept generations of television audiences laughing as bumbling Deputy Barney Fife on 'The Andy Griffith Show,' has died. He was 81."
Normally I'm annoyed when an actor gets stuck in playing the same character over and over. Mr. Knotts would, at first, seem to be the epitome of this. However, only a particular mannerism -- exaggerated nervousness -- is the only trait Knotts brings from character to character. Whether he is seen in his most famous role, Deputy Barney Fife from The Andy Griffith Show, his appearances on The Steve Allen Show, or taking the lead in The Incredible Mr. Limpet, Knotts created distinct personalities.
A world without Mr. Knotts makes me nervous, and not comically. Actors of this quality are always needed but more so in today's culture. Honest, wholesome comedy wanes as stars like Mr. Knotts pass. You will be missed, sir.