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This was the advice Don Knotts gave to actors seeking their ''big break'' in Hollywood
"Get known, and time will take care of the rest."
Despite what many believe, an actor’s work can be plenty challenging.
Don Knotts, best known for his comedic roles in sitcoms like The Andy Griffith Show and movies like The Ghost and Mr. Chicken (1966), argued that comedy was a fickle thing; in order to appeal to a larger audience, you had to stick to the basics.
“Comedians are in a tough position now,” said Knotts during an interview with the Rolla Daily News. “You have to stick to basic humor. There is such a thing. It’s funny for everybody. But on satire, there’s more disagreement. That’s because the country is divided.”
Watch The Andy Griffith Show on MeTV!
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*available in most MeTV marketsWhen pressed as to whether he had any advice for hopeful actors, Knotts was frank.
“The only thing I can suggest is for a young person to go there [to Hollywood], become involved somewhere, regardless of how minor a role or place,” said the actor during an interview with The Montgomery Advertiser. “Become involved; get to know people and names. Get known and time will take care of the rest. It’s not easy any way you look at it. Stars must work for years before the break comes.”
Even today, humor is subjective. All those years ago, Knotts understood this truth. “Wholesome and good entertainment depends upon your own definition,” said the actor.
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