Ken Berry Said Frances Bavier Didn’t Appreciate Her TAGS Character Until Later In Life

by: Nina Ross
April 18, 2023

source: IMDB

Ken Berry, an American actor known for his role as Sam Jones in the popular television series “The Andy Griffith Show” (TAGS), reportedly mentioned that Frances Bavier, who portrayed the character of Aunt Bee, did not fully appreciate her character until later in her life.

Frances Bavier played the role of Aunt Bee, the kind-hearted and sometimes strict housekeeper of the Taylor family in the fictional town of Mayberry, North Carolina, in “The Andy Griffith Show” which aired from 1960 to 1968. Aunt Bee was a beloved character in the show, known for her warmth, humor, and occasional quirks.

Berry, in various interviews, has spoken fondly of his time working with Bavier on the set of “The Andy Griffith Show.” He often mentioned that Bavier was a professional and a talented actress who took her craft seriously. According to Berry, Frances Bavier’s initial lack of appreciation for her character Aunt Bee may have been due to her reserved and private nature, but over time, she came to embrace the role and enjoy playing Aunt Bee.

Berry stated that Frances Bavier’s attitude towards her character changed as she realized the impact and significance of Aunt Bee in the hearts of viewers. He believed that once Bavier appreciated the depth and popularity of her character, she was able to loosen up and have fun with the role. Berry recalled moments on set where Bavier would ad-lib lines or add her own comedic touches to Aunt Bee’s character, showcasing a newfound playfulness and joy in her portrayal.

Furthermore, Frances Bavier’s experience in the entertainment industry may have influenced her perspective on her character. Prior to her role in “The Andy Griffith Show,” she had a successful career as a stage actress, earning critical acclaim for her performances in Broadway plays. She transitioned to television relatively late in her career, and her theater background may have shaped her perception of acting as a craft rather than a means of achieving fame or recognition. Bavier may have viewed her portrayal of Aunt Bee as just another role in her long and varied career, rather than recognizing the unique impact and lasting legacy of the character in the hearts of millions of viewers.