Wednesday, 19 June 2024

Quarter-Square Triangle Star

 

For fifteen years, Frances Bavier played Aunt Bee on the Andy Griffith Show. The more popular the show (and her character) became, the less she liked it. In an interview, she explained, “It’s difficult for an actress to create a role and to be so identified that you as a person no longer exist.” She developed a reputation for being difficult and easily offended. Andy Griffith reported, “There was just something about me she didn’t like.” When asked about her, Ron Howard said, “I don't think she enjoyed being around children much.” Frances retired at age 70 and moved to a small, Mayberry-like town in North Carolina. If she hoped to escape Aunt Bee there, she was disappointed. Bus loads of tourists would stop by her house for a glimpse of their favorite character. She became a recluse, hiding in her own back bedroom with the curtains closed – with at least fourteen cats.

No comments:

Post a Comment