Actor Andy Griffith, best known for his acting in The Andy Griffith Show and Matlock, died early this morning.

Griffith died at his home in Dare County, North Carolina around 7 a.m. A close friend of the actor named, Friday, confirmed the news to WITN News. Emergency medical crews responded to Griffith's home this morning, Dare County Sheriff J.D. Doughtie told WAVY.com.

The actor was born in Mt. Airy, North Carolina and gained prominence, in 1957, in the starring role in "A Face in the Crowd" and from there became better known for his television roles. America adored his role as Sheriff Andy Taylor in The Andy Griffith Show (1960-1968) that took place in the fictional town of Mayberry, North Carolina. He later found success again with the legal drama, Matlock, from 1986 to 1995.

In 2000, Griffith underwent quadruple heart-bypass surgery and in 2007 had a hip surgery after a fall.

Griffith was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by US President George W. Bush on November 9, 2005.

He is survived by his wife Cindi and his daughter Dixie. Son Andrew Jr., known as Sam, died in 1996.

Griffith was 86 years old.