Don Knotts Net Worth at Death — The Full Story of the Legendary TV Star

Don Knotts was one of the most beloved American comedian and actor figures in TV history. Born in Morgantown, West Virginia, he rose from humble beginnings to become a household name. His role as Barney Fife in The Andy Griffith Show made him a star and earned him multiple Emmy Awards

Over the decades, Knotts also worked in films, variety shows, and other hit sitcoms, building not just fame but financial success. This article explores Don Knotts net worth, his career milestones, personal life, and the lasting impact he left on comedy. From small-town stages to Hollywood fame, Knotts’ journey is unforgettable.

Early Life in Morgantown and Military Beginnings

Jesse John Knotts grew up in Morgantown, West Virginia during the Great Depression. Life was hard, but it shaped his humor and determination. From a young age, he loved entertaining friends with impressions and funny voices. After high school, he enrolled at West Virginia University, but World War II interrupted his studies.

Knotts enlisted in the Special Services Branch (U.S. Army). He performed with a military comedy troupe WWII that entertained soldiers overseas. His famous ventriloquist act, “Stars and Gripes (ventriloquist act),” made him a troop favorite.He went back to WVU after the war and finished his drama degree there. This military entertainment experience built the foundation for his later TV success.

From Stage to The Andy Griffith Show

After college, Knotts moved to New York to chase acting dreams. He joined the Steve Allen variety show on NBC, where his nervous-man comedy style became famous. He collaborated with Andy Griffith through his work on stage in No Time for Sergeants Broadway. That friendship changed his career forever.

In 1960, Sheldon Leonard cast Knotts as Deputy Barney Fife in The Andy Griffith Show. This role turned him into one of the 20th century TV icons. Over five seasons, Knotts won Emmy Awards for his performance, making him an Emmy Award-winning actor and a household name across America.

Salary and Net Worth of the Andy Griffith Show

Back in the 1960s, TV stars didn’t earn the massive salaries we see today. Knotts reportedly earned $35,000 per season — good money at the time but modest by modern standards. However, his work brought him syndication bonuses and stage offers.

Here’s a simple table comparing TV star pay then vs. now:

Knotts left the show in 1965 for a Universal Studios contract, where his pay per film increased his wealth. Even without massive royalties, he built steady income that contributed to the Don Knotts net worth story.

Movie Career and Disney Films

After leaving The Andy Griffith Show, Knotts signed with Universal Studios and starred in 1970s family comedies like The Shakiest Gun in the West, The Love God?, and How to Frame a Figg. His role in Disney films such as The Apple Dumpling Gang made him a popular Disney films actor.

In later years, he voiced characters in animations, including Chicken Little, adding to his earnings. His ability to switch between live-action comedy and voice acting kept his career active well into his senior years.

Three’s Company and the 1980s Sitcom Era

In the late 1970s, Knotts joined Three’s Company as Ralph Furley, replacing the classic sitcom landlords The Ropers. This made him part of the 1980s sitcom stars generation. His eccentric fashion, colorful scarves, and over-the-top expressions kept the show’s variety show ratings high.

While his salary was better than in the 1960s, it still wasn’t close to today’s million-dollar-per-episode deals. Yet, his popularity from Three’s Company kept him in the spotlight and brought in new fan generations.

Later Career and Return to Mayberry

In the 1980s and 1990s, Knotts took guest roles in TV and films, appeared in NBC variety shows, and returned to the stage. He reunited with Andy Griffith in the Return to Mayberry TV movie, which was a nostalgic hit.

He also acted in family films and made cameo appearances in sitcoms. Despite vision problems due to macular degeneration vision loss, Knotts continued to work until his final years.

Personal Life, Marriages, and Family

Knotts was married three times: first to Kathryn Metz, then to Loralee Czuchna, and finally to Francey Yarborough, who was with him until his death. His daughter Karen Knotts, who went on to become an actress and writer, was one of his two children.

Though he earned well, Knotts lived modestly. His main home was a Beverly Hills condo, not a massive Hollywood mansion. This frugality helped him maintain a strong financial position throughout his life.

Illness, Death, and Legacy

Knotts passed away in 2006 from lung cancer. He had also battled macular degeneration in his later years, which affected his vision. His passing marked the loss of one of America’s greatest comedy legends.

Today, his work is still loved, and reruns of The Andy Griffith Show and Three’s Company keep his humor alive. Adjusted for inflation, his estimated Don Knotts net worth at death is still a testament to decades of steady, successful work in television, film, and stage.

Conclusion

Don Knotts made millions laugh and smile for many years. He started from a small town and became one of the biggest stars on TV. His role as Barney Fife in The Andy Griffith Show will always be remembered. People still watch his shows today because they are funny and full of heart.

He also worked in movies, variety shows, and other sitcoms. Even after his death, his work lives on. His life shows that with hard work and talent, anyone can reach their dreams. Fans will always remember him as one of the greatest comedy stars of all time.

FAQs

Q: What was Don Knotts net worth when he died?
A: Around $20 million, according to reports.

Q: What TV show made Don Knotts famous?
A: The Andy Griffith Show, where he played Barney Fife.

Q: Did Don Knotts win any Emmy Awards?
A: Yes, he won five Emmy Awards for his acting.

Q: Where was Don Knotts born?
A: He was born in Morgantown, West Virginia.

Q: What caused Don Knotts’ death?
A: He died from lung cancer in 2006.