Knotts took the role of Barney Fife , the deputy -- and originally cousin -- of Sheriff Andy Taylor ( portrayed by Griffith ) .
In 1960 , Andy Griffith was offered the opportunity to headline his own sitcom , The Andy Griffith Show ( 1960 -- 1968 ) .
Knotts took the role of Barney Fife , the deputy -- and originally cousin -- of Sheriff Andy Taylor ( portrayed by Andy Griffith ) .
In 1960 , Andy Griffith was offered the opportunity to headline his own sitcom , The Andy Griffith Show ( 1960 -- 1968 ) .