Betty Lynn, best remembered as Thelma Lou, the beloved sweetheart of Barney Fife on The Andy Griffith Show has passed away at the age of 95. The Andy Griffith Museum announced the news on their website. Lynn served as an ambassador for the Andy Griffith Museum from 2006 to present day where she regularly talked to fans and signed autographs.
About Betty Lynn
Lynn was born in Kansas City, Missouri but has spent most of her time in southern California for her acting career. Before her iconic role, she played small roles in films like June Bride (1948) and Cheaper by the Dozen (1950). Additionally, she appeared in the television series, Disneyland (1959-1970). Lynn then appeared as Thelma Lou towards the end of the first season in 1961. The series ran until 1966.
Betty Lynn’s Career as Thelma Lou
Thelma Lou became boyfriend Barney Fife’s (played by Don Knotts) greatest love in the 60s hit show. Their ‘on and off’ romance captivated viewers throughout the series. Eventually, the two characters married in the reunion TV movie Return to Mayberry (1986) which became the last time we would see the two on screen together.
Thelma Lou (Betty Lynn) kissing Barney Fife (Don Knotts) on The Andy Griffith Show. Image credit: Deadline.
More of Betty Lynn’s Film Appearances
Lynn also played as Ray Bolger’s sister-in-law in 1953-54 on ABC’s Where’s Raymond? Later she earned small parts in Gun for a Coward (1956), Meet Me in Las Vegas (1956) and guest starred in series Wagon Train and Tales of Wells Fargo. Shortly after these films, she scored her gig on Texas John Slaughter before landing the role as Thelma Lou. Along with her multiple film and television credits, here are some of fan favorites she appeared in: Family Affair (1966-1968), My Three Sons (1967- 1971), The Farmer’s Daughter (1963), Mod Squad (1969-1972) and Little House on the Prairie (1974).
