The average fan may be surprised to learn that even role models have role models. Finding someone to look up to is a powerful motivator, and gives you something to work towards. Even the most powerful and talented stars began as nobodies, staring at the television screen in wonder, finding a kindred spirit on the other side of the screen.

While Jim Nabors made a name for himself as a comedian, he was careful throughout his career to remember the things and the people that led to his success. Nabors is best known for characters like Gomer Pyle on Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C., and The Andy Griffith Show. Griffith himself discovered Nabors and recommended him for a role in his series.

Not only that, but Nabors also revealed that Griffith served as a comedic inspiration for Nabors when he was first starting.

"He [Griffith] was probably the biggest role model I had for entertaining," said Nabors during an interview with the Times-News. "He's still going at it pretty hard and heavy. I like that show (Matlock) very much."

See More

Jim Nabors: ''I've never tried to duck Gomer Pyle.''

While Nabors' raw talent as an actor was nothing to shake your head at, he also emphasized that no matter how successful he became, he was first and foremost, a student of comedy. "I've certainly grown," said Nabors. "I feel I've learned a whole lot, but I'm still the same person I always was. I try to be a good person, to work hard, and to be nice. That's about it. That's all I've ever tried to be."

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