Andy Griffith remembered by 'Darlings' Dillard and Peterson

The Darling Family on the "Andy Griffith Show."

The "Andy Griffith Show" was full of characters and the actors who played them seemed universally fond of the show's namesake. Rodney Dillard and Maggie Peterson, who played members of the Darling Family, have both weighed in on Griffith in light of his death.

The Dillards, of which Rodney was a founding member, were signed to Elektra Records when they were asked to play the part of Darling brothers on the "Andy Griffith Show."

In a statement Dillard said: “Andy Griffith became more than an icon. He represented American family values and has given comfort and hope in these uncertain times. He gave The Dillards (The Darlings) an opportunity to be part of this. Andy was kind, generous and patient with an inexperienced group of pickers from the Ozark Mountains. Andy Griffith’s impact on the world will last forever.”

Peterson, who played Charlene Darling on the show, kept in contact with Griffith through the years.

Peterson said in a statement: “The passing of Andy leaves me so saddened. It feels like the presence that kept us steady in life is now gone. The Darling family was treated with such respect on the show. These could have been ridiculous characters without Andy’s respectful reaction to us. Everyone will truly miss him. Thank God we have those beautiful episodes to keep us company. He enhanced my life and I will miss him so.”

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