Cindi Knight is best known as the wife of legendary actor Andy Griffith, but she also had a career of her own in the entertainment industry. Though she mostly stayed out of the spotlight, her relationship with Griffith made her a notable figure. But who is Cindi Knight beyond her marriage? Let’s explore her life, career, and her time with the beloved TV icon.

Quick Bio

Full Name	Cindi Knight Griffith
Date of Birth	May 2, 1953
Age	71 years (as of 2024)
Birthplace	Jacksonville, Florida, USA
Nationality	American
Profession	Actress
Famous For	Being Andy Griffith’s wife
Marital Status	Widowed
Spouse	Andy Griffith (m. 1983–2012)
Net Worth	Estimated $10 million
Known For	Roles in “Murder in Coweta County”

Early Life and Background

Cindi Knight was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, where she spent most of her early years. Growing up, she had a passion for performing arts and acting, which later shaped her career. She attended local schools and was actively involved in theater and drama clubs.

Her early years were filled with aspirations of making a name in Hollywood. Though she wasn’t a household name, she managed to land some notable acting roles before meeting Andy Griffith.

Career Before Andy Griffith

Before becoming Andy Griffith’s wife, Cindi Knight had a brief career in acting. She appeared in a few TV shows and movies, with her most recognized role being in the 1983 TV movie “Murder in Coweta County”. This crime drama starred big names like Johnny Cash and Andy Griffith, which is how she met her future husband.

Although she didn’t pursue a long-term Hollywood career, her work in television was well-received. She also had experience in theater, which further helped her develop her acting skills.

Relationship with Andy Griffith

Cindi Knight met Andy Griffith in the early 1980s when he was already a well-established actor, famous for “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Matlock.” The two connected quickly and began dating.

Despite the age difference of nearly 30 years, their relationship grew strong. They tied the knot on April 12, 1983, in a private ceremony. Their marriage lasted almost 30 years, until Griffith’s passing in 2012.

Cindi was not just Andy’s wife but also his biggest supporter, especially during his later years when he struggled with health issues.

Who Is Andy Griffith?

Andy Griffith was an American actor, comedian, and singer, best known for his iconic role as Sheriff Andy Taylor in “The Andy Griffith Show.” He was also widely recognized for playing Ben Matlock in the legal drama “Matlock.”

Griffith had a successful career spanning over six decades, earning a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors. His charm, humor, and on-screen presence made him an unforgettable figure in the entertainment industry.

Andy Griffith’s Middle Marriage

Before Cindi Knight, Andy Griffith had two previous marriages.

1. Barbara Bray Edwards (1949–1972) – His first wife, with whom he adopted two children, Sam Griffith and Dixie Griffith. Unfortunately, Sam passed away in 1996 due to substance abuse issues.
2. Solica Cassuto (1973–1981) – His second marriage lasted eight years but ended in divorce.

After these relationships, Andy found love again with Cindi Knight, and their marriage became one of his longest-lasting relationships.

Role as a Stepmother

Though Cindi did not have biological children, she became a stepmother to Andy Griffith’s two adopted children.

After Andy’s passing, Cindi remained close to Dixie Griffith, his daughter. However, she also had to deal with the tragic loss of Sam Griffith, who passed away at just 38 years old.

Cindi was known for maintaining a low profile, focusing more on her family and private life rather than the Hollywood spotlight.

Career Post-Marriage

After marrying Andy Griffith, Cindi Knight stepped away from acting and focused on supporting her husband.

She became a full-time partner and caregiver, especially as Andy battled health issues in his later years. Though she did not return to Hollywood, she remained involved in managing some of Andy Griffith’s estate and legacy after his passing.

Andy Griffith’s Legacy and Their Life Together

Andy Griffith’s legacy in Hollywood is legendary. As an actor, he left behind an iconic career that influenced generations of actors and comedians.

Cindi and Andy lived a peaceful life in Manteo, North Carolina, where they owned a beautiful home on Roanoke Island. Away from the Hollywood spotlight, they enjoyed a quiet, private life together.

Cindi was Andy’s strongest supporter, standing by him through health challenges, legal battles, and career ups and downs.

Life After Andy Griffith

After Andy Griffith passed away on July 3, 2012, Cindi Knight became the executor of his estate. She inherited a significant portion of his assets, including their North Carolina home.

Rather than returning to acting, Cindi chose a private life, occasionally managing Andy’s legacy but mostly staying out of the public eye. She has rarely given interviews or made public appearances since his death.

Cindi Knight’s Later Years and Net Worth

Today, Cindi Knight remains out of the spotlight. She is believed to be living in North Carolina, where she continues to preserve Andy Griffith’s memory.

Her estimated net worth is around $10 million, thanks to Andy Griffith’s estate and her own career earnings. While she is not active in Hollywood, she enjoys a comfortable life with the fortune left by her husband.

Conclusion

Cindi Knight is more than just Andy Griffith’s wife—she is an actress, a devoted partner, and a guardian of his legacy. Though she chose to stay away from fame, her life story remains inspiring.

Her love for Andy, her brief but notable acting career, and her quiet yet influential presence in Hollywood make her an important figure in Griffith’s life story. Even years after his passing, Cindi Knight continues to honor his memory, living a life of privacy and grace.

FAQs

Who is Cindi Knight?
Cindi Knight is an actress best known as the wife of Andy Griffith. She had a brief acting career before marrying the legendary TV star.

How did Cindi Knight meet Andy Griffith?
Cindi met Andy Griffith while filming the 1983 TV movie “Murder in Coweta County,” where he played a leading role.

Did Cindi Knight have any children?
No, Cindi Knight did not have biological children, but she became a stepmother to Andy Griffith’s adopted children.

What was the age difference between Cindi Knight and Andy Griffith?
Andy Griffith was nearly 30 years older than Cindi Knight, but their marriage lasted almost three decades.

What did Cindi Knight do after Andy Griffith’s death?
After Andy Griffith passed away in 2012, Cindi Knight inherited his estate and chose to live a private life away from Hollywood.

Where is Cindi Knight now?
Cindi Knight is believed to be living in North Carolina, managing Andy Griffith’s legacy and staying out of the public eye.

What was Cindi Knight’s most famous acting role?
Her most recognized role was in the 1983 TV movie “Murder in Coweta County,” where she starred alongside Andy Griffith and Johnny Cash.

Did Cindi Knight continue acting after marriage?
No, after marrying Andy Griffith in 1983, she left Hollywood and focused on her personal life and supporting her husband.

How much is Cindi Knight’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is around $10 million, largely due to Andy Griffith’s estate and her own earnings.

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