Arts & Entertainment
‘The Andy Griffith Show’ star Jim Nabors dies at 87
the actor was known for portraying mechanic Gomer Pyle
Actor Jim Nabors, best known for his role as the goofy Gomer Pyle on “The Andy Griffith Show,” died at his home in Hawaii on Thursday morning. He was 87.
Born in Sylacauga, Alabama, Nabors kicked off his entertainment career singing in high school and church before attending the University of Alabama. Later, he was discovered by Andy Griffith in a Los Angeles nightclub which led to his role as the mechanic Gomer Pyle on “The Andy Griffith Show.”
The role was intended to be a one episode appearance but Nabors played the character for two seasons. He went on to star in the spin-off series “Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.,” which originated the popular catchphrase, “gawwwleee,” for five seasons.
His other acting credits include “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” and “Stroker Ace.” Nabor was also a singer and released 28 albums. He performed “Back Home in Indiana” at the Indy 500 for the last time in 2014.
Nabors is survived by his husband Stan Cadwallader, who he married in 2013.
Out & About
Blade Summer Kickoff Party returns to Rehoboth
Politicians slated to speak at annual Blue Moon party
The Washington Blade’s 17th annual Summer Kickoff Party returns Friday, May 17, 5-7 p.m. at the Blue Moon (35 Baltimore Ave.) in Rehoboth Beach, Del.
It’s an exciting election year in Delaware, which is poised to elect its first Black woman senator (Lisa Blunt Rochester) and the nation’s first transgender member of Congress (Sarah McBride).
McBride is scheduled to speak at the party along with several politicos from the area. With the retirement of longtime state Rep. Peter C. Schwartzkopf, a staunch LGBTQ ally, three strong contenders are running to replace him. All three — Marty Rendon, Kathy McGuiness, and Claire Snyder-Hall — are slated to speak at the party. A representative from Blunt Rochester’s campaign is scheduled to speak, along with Kim Leisey, the new executive director of CAMP Rehoboth.
Tax-deductible tickets are $20 and available on Eventbrite or via the Blade’s Facebook page. The party is sponsored by Justin Noble of Sotheby’s, The Avenue Inn & Spa, and Blue Moon.
Andy Cohen, executive producer of “The Real Housewives” franchise and host of “Watch What Happens Live,” will return to Sixth & I on Wednesday, May 8 at 7:30 p.m.
This event will be his fifth appearance at the venue to celebrate the paperback release of his New York Times bestselling memoir, “The Daddy Diaries,” talk about the latest Housewives happenings, and answer audience questions about everyone’s favorite Bravolebrities.
Cohen will be in conversation with Rep. Robert Garcia, who represents California and is the first LGBTQ immigrant to win a congressional seat. Rep. Garcia has also been known to quote from “The Real Housewives” in congressional hearings.
Tickets start at $12 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.
“Herses- Purse Frist Extravaganza” will be on Friday, May 3 at 9 p.m. at 1835 14th St. N.W. This will be an evening of dancing and performances, hosted by HAUS of Bambi Award-winning Performance Artist, BUMPER. Refreshments are also available for purchase.
Tickets are $10 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.