Jim Nabors

Jim Nabors was an American actor, singer, and comedian. Born and raised in Sylacauga, Alabama, Nabors moved to southern California because of his asthma. While working at a Santa Monica nightclub, The Horn, he 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.

In 1978, Nabors was nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Host or Hostess in a Talk, Service or Variety Series for The Jim Nabors Show.

Nabors died November 30, 2017, in Honolulu. He was 87.