'Gomer Pyle' Star Jim Nabors Passes Away at 87

Deadline reports that actor Jim Nabors, perhaps best known for his endearing television character 'Gomer Pyle' passed away in Hawaii today, December 30th at the age of 87. The news was first reported by Hawaii News Now.

Nabors was discovered by Andy Griffith and later joined The Andy Griffith Show, playing Gomer Pyle. The character proved popular, and Nabors was given his own spin-off show, Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C..

Though known for his portrayal of Gomer Pyle, Nabors became a popular guest on variety shows in the 1960s and 1970s (including two specials of his own in 1969 and 1974), which showcased his rich baritone voice, and sometimes his higher-pitched voice. He subsequently recorded numerous albums and singles, most of them containing romantic ballads.

Nabors was also known for singing "Back Home Again in Indiana", prior to the start of the Indianapolis 500, held annually over the Memorial Day Weekend. Save for occasional absences due to health or other conflicts, Nabors sang the unofficial Indiana anthem almost every year from 1972 until his final time in 2014.

Watch a clip from Gomer Pyle below:

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