“The Andy Griffith Show” had quite a cast of characters including Aunt Bee. But did you know there was another actor who played her?
Outsiders, let’s try and offer some perspective. An article from MeTV speaks about Frances Bavier, who played Aunt Bee for eight seasons on the CBS sitcom.
But Bavier also played Aunt Bee in the Griffith spin-off, “Mayberry R.F.D.” She would retire from acting after that show and find a home in North Carolina.
When the TV movie “Return to Mayberry” was getting ready to film, Bavier did not appear herself…but her voice does.
Say what? Yes, her voice does but it’s not Bavier. Janet Waldo, who was the voice of such cartoon characters like Judy Jetson of “The Jetsons” and Josie of “Josie and the Pussycats,” provided Aunt Bee’s voice.
Waldo even appeared as an actress on an episode of “The Andy Griffith Show” called “A Wife for Andy.” So, Outsiders, when you catch that reunion TV movie again, then see if you can catch where Waldo’s voice appears.
‘The Andy Griffith Show’ Actress Bavier Didn’t Want To Disappoint Fans
While we’re talking about Frances Bavier, she did an interview after “The Andy Griffith Show” ended that might interest the show’s fans.
Bavier, who did an interview with Carolina Camera, said most people saw her only as Aunt Bee, not Frances Bavier.
She said that there was the pressure she put on herself to not disappoint those fans. After all, Aunt Bee was beloved by everyone.
“I had played Aunt Bee for 10 years,” Bavier said. “And, it’s very, very difficult for an actress or an actor to create a role and be so identified (with that role) that you as a person no longer exist. And all the recognition you get is for a part that is created on the screen.”
Would Bavier fear if people assumed she would respond like Aunt Bee?
Bavier said, “Yes, I think so. And I think they’re disappointed if I destroy the image.”
Actress Also Said N.C. Citizens In Town Had Trouble Interacting With Her
As we said, Outsiders, she retired to a town called Siler City, N.C.
She was asked if people there set her up on dates.
“No,” Bavier said. “They haven’t confused me to that extent.” Bavier added that citizens there probably saw a 70-year-old lady who wants to be left alone.
She said Siler City residents had a problem trying to be friendly while not intruding.
“It makes it very difficult for them…I’ve had many, many Christmas cards and gifts and it was a little difficult adjustment for me when I first came,” Bavier said.
“The Andy Griffith Show” was made better with her on the show.
