WITN News in North Carolina is reporting that Andy Griffith has died this morning. Former UNC President Bill Friday, who is a close friend of the actor, confirmed it to the news organization.

The 86 year old actor died at his Dare County home in North Carolina around 7:00 a.m. on July 3rd.

Andy Griffith is best known for his role as “Andy Taylor” from 1960 to 1968 on The Andy Griffith Show and his role as “Ben Matlock” from 1985 to 1996 on Matlock. He was also awarded the Presidental Medal of Freedom by President George W. Bush on November 9th 2005.

In 2008, Brad Paisley featured Andy Griffith in his music video for “Waiting On A Woman.”

CBS Charlotte has more updates on this breaking story.

Remembering Andy Griffith