Griffith (left) quickly became "America's Favorite Sheriff" while on "The Andy Griffith Show." (Wikimedia Commons)

An ambulance was dispatched to Griffith's home around 7 a.m. Former UNC President Bill Friday and Dare County Sheriff Doug Doughtie confirmed the death, though the cause of death has not been released.

The 86-year-old was best known for his role as "America's Favorite Sheriff" on "The Andy Griffith Show," as well as producing and starring in "Matlock."

Read the developing story here.

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