To say that Andy Griffith was worried about losing Don Knotts on The Andy Griffith Show is a bit of an overstatement. The two had acted alongside each other on the series for many years, and when Knotts decided to branch out and leave the show, Griffith couldn't have been more supportive.

"It's a good time, a strong time for Don to change over," he said. "He's been on TV nine years straight. Now Don and I are very close, but I don't like that team idea of going on forever. Cause you never know how you're going to feel one year to the next."

Griffith didn't seem a bit worried. "We'll be doing the same thing except Don won't be there," Griffith said of the next season of The Andy Griffith Show.

Still, Knotts' departure left a hole in the show, leaving much to be desired in the way of comedy. Particularly, Griffith expressed worry that without Knotts to provide levity during the show's more serious moments, it might hinder the episode.

"Next year we're going to have to be careful. Now when we do a heavy show with Opie, a drama, we use Don to break that tone. He flies about and any messages go down easy."

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Andy Griffith was often critical of his own talent

Luckily, Knotts was frequently available for guest spots as Barney throughout the later episodes of The Andy Griffith Show. As for Griffith himself, he knew that despite his good fortune, it was a good idea to never get too comfortable in a habit.

"It's been a great five years," said Griffith "Next year, who knows? Maybe I should go over and make a picture with Don."

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