Crazy Secrets You Didn’t Know About The Andy Griffith Show. Bonus: What The Stars Look Like Today!

The Only Speaking Role

There were many African-Americans who appeared in the background scenes of The Andy Griffith Show but they were there as extras with non-speaking roles. However, Rockne Tarkington broke that streak when he appeared on the episode titled “Opie’s Piano Lesson.” He actually spoke lines on the show, becoming the only black actor to do so during its entire series run on TV. The Oscars committee would be proud.