American actor Andy Griffith has died at his North Carolina home at the age of 86.

Griffith passed away at approximately 7:00 AM EDT at his home on Roanoke Island, Dare County, according to the sheriff's office.

Griffith was famous for his portrayal of a small-town sheriff in his self-titled show 'The Andy Griffith Show' one of US television's most enduring shows.

In addition to his self-titled show, Griffith created another memorable television character, the defense lawyer in 'Matlock' in the 1980-90's.

Building on his television success, Griffith also enjoyed acclaim on stage and as a film actor, including his highly regarded performance as a homeless man in the 1957 movie 'A Face in the Crowd'.