Saying goodbye to a job isn't always easy, especially when your coworkers have become like family.

Still, Don Knotts knew that his time on The Andy Griffith Show had run its course. Knotts had been with the series for five years and was an integral part of the show from its conception. When Knotts left the series, it was with the blessing of his friend and costar, Andy Griffith. Originally, Knotts left The Andy Griffith Show for an opportunity to work in film, but after a few years, he eventually returned to television to star in his own series, The Don Knotts Show.

Many believed that when Knotts left The Andy Griffith Show, he might never return to television. But during an interview with the Chicago Tribune, Knotts revealed that while he was hesitant to return to television, he was given an offer he simply couldn't refuse, both creatively and financially.

"NBC came up with a fantastic offer which I couldn't turn down," said Knotts. "They also told me I could fill the hour the way I wanted. And we have a deal for my own company to produce the show for the network."

See More

The Andy Griffith ShowDon Knotts

Even as Don Knotts was leaving The Andy Griffith Show, he was talking about starring in a new series with Andy Griffith

Most importantly, the time after his departure from The Andy Griffith Show had given Knotts a change in perspective.

"Time changes things," he said. "There are a number of reasons why I decided to go into a weekly series. Frankly, I've gotten a bit confused with what's going on in the movie world, not knowing what the audience wants right now. Though my pictures have been well received, I thought maybe audiences would tire of seeing me doing the same thing over and over. Also, it felt so good when I did my last special that I decided to switch back to TV for a while."

Watch The Andy Griffith Show on MeTV!

Weeknights at 8 & 8:30, Sundays at 12 & 6 PM

*available in most MeTV markets

 Add to Favorites  Remind Me