Don Knotts – The Famous Comedian
Don Knotts is immortalized as one of the best comedians to have entertained the American public. His unique brand of comedy gave people something to look forward to as they trudge through the difficult realities of life. Two roles come to mind whenever the name Don Knotts is mentioned. The first and earlier of the two is his role as Deputy Barney Fife in the comedy show The Andy Griffith Show. He played the role so well that people were able to relate to the character as one who is flawed but tried his best to put on a brave face, making him look arrogant and overbearing in a funny way. The show was such a huge success that Don Knotts earned many awards and recognitions for his portrayal.
While some of the episodes in The Andy Griffith Show were in black and white, the later ones were already in technicolor. This meant that Don Knotts was there when film and TV were making technological breakthroughs. It was then in 1979 when Don Knotts was cast as Ralph Furley in another well-loved comedy show, Three’s Company. In the show, he portrayed an often annoying, trendsetting landlord. Don Knotts again showcased the kind of comic relief that made him endearing to audiences the world over.
As a trivia, Don Knotts received many honors as well for the time he spent as an officer in the Second World War. There were also times that he was sent as a comedian and a ventriloquist to give some comedic relief to American troops during the war.
Don Knotts – a short biography
Why did Don Knotts leave The Andy Griffith Show?
Don Knotts left The Andy Griffith Show as he had an inkling that the show would only go on for not more than 5 years. Thus, he pursued film offers, and he was able to pen a deal with Universal Pictures. He disliked that he had to leave the show; however, from his decision, he was able to land roles in full-length films that include The Reluctant Astronaut and The Ghost and Mr. Chicken.
How many kids did Don Knotts have?
Don Knotts has two children, a son, and a daughter. The name of his son is Thomas Knotts. The name of his daughter is Karen Knotts. Karen also became a well-known comedian.
Karen’s photo of her late father doing ventriloquism
“Tied Up In Knotts!” and Panel in Sherman Oaks, Feb 27, March 20 https://t.co/HtZjFPujv4 pic.twitter.com/hpNDZ1dlzl
— Karen Knotts (@knottskid) February 24, 2020
What were Don Knotts’ last words?
There was no actual account of what Don Knotts actually said in his deathbed. However, an anecdote from his daughter, Karen Knotts, showed how great a comedian her father was. While Don Knotts was breathing his last few breaths, he managed to crack a joke, sending her daughter Karen to come outside the room and laugh. She didn’t want her dad to see her laughing while he was dying. Andy Griffith, his partner from The Andy Griffith Show, was also there encouraging Don Knotts to fight on.
How did Don Knotts die?
Don Knotts died of complications due to pneumonia as he was suffering from lung cancer.
In what movie did Don Knotts play a fish?
The iconic comedian played the role of a fish in the live-action, animated comedy film The Incredible Mr. Limpet. A kind of metafictional comedy, the show had Don Knotts playing the role of Henry Limpet, the fish who was apparently teaching aquatic animals some human traits and characteristics. The film was a hit as it showed Don Knotts unique talent to play out-of-this-world characters and scenes.
13 Things you didn’t know about Don Knotts
Where was Don Knotts from?
Don Knotts was born in Morgantown, West Virginia. He is an American.
How tall was Don Knotts?
Don Knotts stood 5 feet 7 inches tall. He weighed around 135 pounds.
Who was Don Knotts married to?
Don Knotts was married three times. The first marriage was to Kathryn Metz. It lasted seven years from 1947 to 1964. Ten years later, he married Loralee Czuchna, and they were together from 1974 to 1983. In 2002, he married Frances Yarborough, his last marriage. This lasted for four years until the time of his death in 2006. Frances also died in 2013. She never remarried.
Don Knotts with wife, Frances Yarborough
How much is Don Knotts’s net worth?
Don Knotts was said to have made around $20 million in net worth.
