When Gomer Pyle Married Rock Hudson: The Secret Life of Jim Nabors

Over his 55-year career, Jim Nabors cultivated a wholesome, folksy persona, from playing Gomer Pyle on multiple sitcoms to appearing as himself on variety shows to singing every year at the start of the Indianapolis 500. But behind the scenes, Jim Nabors harbored a secret that would have scandalized the country and ruined his career if it was ever found out - and in fact, it nearly did when rumors spread about his relationship with another closeted actor.
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[@mgmcd1]

“When you are waiting for a transplant, you can’t pray for one, because someone has to die.” I love that man. I’m already a friend of the family, but I have renewed respect him.

[@johncamp7679]

I don’t think there would be a Gomer Pyle without Jim. There was a unique time, show, and actor that came together all at the right moment

[@cdele100]

And that would be okay for me because I couldn't stand that show

[@garychambers5850]

Jim is perfect for the part of "Gomer Pyle" Sad, we just lost " *Elizabeth MacRae* ". She played Gomer's girlfriend "Lou-Ann Poovie" She passed on last Month, May 27th, 2024. She was 88 years old. She's now with *Jim Nabors, Frank Sutton (Sgt Carter), Roy Stewart ( Corp Boyle), Forrest Compton (Colonel Grey )* *Allan Melvin (Sgt Hacker), Barbara Stewart (Carters Girlfriend Miss Bunny), Larry Hovis (Larry), Ted Bessel (Frankie, He was also on THAT GIRL FROM 66-71)* They are all up in Heaven so, don't worry about these fine actors... ❤✝✝🙏🏻🌼🕊

[@johncamp7679]

@@garychambers5850 I remember all those people, I think you missed out if you didn’t watch, Andy Griffith, green acres, Gillian’s island, all those great shows.

[@BaquePhotography]

I met Jim right after he had surgery. this would have been 1992 or 93. I was 18 and taking a friend of mine to see his dad and on the way he asked if I wanted to meet Gomer Pyle, How he knew Jim he never told me, But we knocked on the door and out walks Jim. He had a huge bandage on his chest but we still sat on the porch and talked for about two hours. He literally made cookies while this was going on and made me take a plate when we left. Its really a beautiful memory.

[@karenkennedy5552]

L

[@slaphappybullet]

@@karenkennedy5552 please seek out help

[@MatAK49]

I cannot add anything else but a heartfelt thank you for this tribute. RIP Jim.

[@CuttoothsRoom]

Jim Nabor’s home in honolulu was near where I surfed and there were many occasions when he’d be out on his daily walk around the neighborhood and he would never hesitate to stop and say hi and chat for a few minutes. He was such a nice person, just so genuine. Great job on this video.

[@johnhughes1783]

He was cruising for a hook up.

[@VoteBlue4Peace-LoveInUSAagain]

@@johnhughes1783 troll

[@rebeccalavoy6655]

@@johnhughes1783 🤣

[@johnhughes1783]

@@VoteBlue4Peace-LoveInUSAagain Oh bs on you. He wasn't walking near the surfers for exercise. How many fat unattractive surfers do you see. And he keeps running into the same guy? People that want something are usually extra nice. I didn't say there was anything wrong with it or that Neighbors did anything inappropriate but I don't have my head in the sand either.

[@frankgilyard9210]

That's cool!!

[@christopherrusso531]

My brother was stationed at Gitmo in 1970 when Jim Nabors came via the Bob Hope show to the base. Jim and my brother became good friends for a while then. Jim Nabors organized a phone call from my brother to our home. That as a big deal back them. He also called us on his own to update us on our brother. Great guy.

[@Simpsfan300]

I was stationed in Hawaii while serving in the marine band and had the honor of meeting him and performing with him. Was an incredibly sweet man with a wonderful singing voice. I’ll never forget how great a performer he was.

[@Geezer-yf8hv]

Thanks to Andy Griffith for give Jim a chance! He will live forever, and be loved as Gomer

[@cdele100]

Stupid Andy

[@brucemace5404]

I did meet him by chance in Hawaii in the ‘80’s at a gas station. I had a rental car with a couple of Marine friends. We had gone on a 3 day liberty pass. He Was a really nice man and gave us autographs all 3 of us young Marines where fellow Southerns. I do remember asking a lot about our hometowns etc. What a great truly nice man who took the time to talk to us young Marines.

[@ivoted7199]

Thanks for sharing your lovely story. ...and Thank you for your Service. Salute!

[@claudiarobinson587]

Thank you for your service. Do you still have the picture? Where did you grow up?

[@brucemace5404]

@@claudiarobinson587 No he just signed autographs. One of my buddies had a disposable cameras Brand new at the time. But haven’t seen my friend him in 39 or 40 years ago. The autograph I’m sure I lost along with other autographs I wish I taken better care of.

[@Mabeylater293]

Blame the religion and its lies. They have their bloody fingerprint all over the societal ignorance and hate that haunted homosexuals.

[@brucemace5404]

@@Mabeylater293 don’t blame the religious. They follow what was written down things written down 3000+years ago. When things on earth for different from today.

[@themaggattack]

Why did his mother think he couldn't sing? He sure as heck COULD! "Thank you Jim! We love you, we'll miss ya, and we'll never forget ya!" 💔 Rip

[@daggy174]

Mr. Nabors had an extraordinary life. He's one of the celebrities who is always described as kind and relatable. I suspect the dire circumstances of his early life and his earlier failures to break into the industry gave him a strong appreciation for the life he was so lucky to have. Rest In Peace.

[@DebNKY]

He was a lovely man. I just adored him.

[@user-fp2kt1le2e]

He was so lovable both as Gomer Pyle and Jim Nabors. I really enjoyed everything I could see him in. RIP, Jim, you were so loved.

[@harrylazard805]

People were attracted to Jim mostly for being a genuine, honest human being. Someone anyone would want to have as a friend. The talent and his uniqueness is what got him through the door into show business. You can't help but feel good about someone like him to be successful in a career he loved and thought he never had a chance to survive in....

[@girlfridayfinds9359]

He went to school with my Mom and Aunt. My Aunt said he would hang out with the cheerleaders and was always so nice. He would also sing at school and events. He really was very talented.

[@JPMJPM]

Oh, wow! Are you from the same small Alabama town?

[@Justanotherfuckingobserver]

@@JPMJPM Pretty sure that's what they were just saying...??

[@JPMJPM]

@@Justanotherfuckingobserver She said her mom and aunt are from the same town, but she didn’t say she was.

[@girlfridayfinds9359]

@@JPMJPM My Mom and Aunt grew up in same town. My Aunt knew Nabors.

[@JPMJPM]

@@girlfridayfinds9359 Thanks.

[@michaelbaughman4017]

"The only thing worse then being talked about,is not being talked about." OSCAR WILDE

[@matazza6428]

When the 50th anniversary of the Carol Burnett Show aired I was puzzled why Jim wasn’t featured. It was a couple of days later when I found out that he had passed. I felt so sad. He was such a gentle soul.

[@raymondcaylor6292]

My cousin Gerri was a dancer on The Carol Burnette Show. My family was in attendance at a show Jim Neighbors was a guest on in the early 70's. They were so affectionate before, during, and after taping. He was a very talented, nice person. How great it would have been to meet him.

[@ozmaile7938]

Fun bit: I had the pleasure of meeting him in the early 2000s. I was sitting on a secluded beach in a remote part of Maui Hawaii which I frequented for many years when he and a couple walked up and said hello. We enjoyed a conversation and he invited me to come by his place for dinner, He had a nice fruit farm estate there. I remember his warm hospitality and the steaks we had for dinner! Kept in touch with the couple as they were in architecture and design as I am and saw him a few more times at the beach before he passed away

[@bigdude8468]

It really makes me respect Andy Griffith even more to hear this. I had watched him honor old black blues singers and help Don Knotts recover from alcoholism, but supporting the work & life of a gay man (especially in the south) at the time of the Andy Griffith Show was very kind-hearted & courageous!

[@mosasaurusrex1815]

Thank you for this. I grew up on Andy Griffith and never knew Jim Nabors was gay. This video was incredibly heartwarming and I'm so glad that he got his happily ever after despite everything he went through.

[@andrewskrypnyk601]

I met Jim when I was 11 at the LAX in 1975. I already luved the guy from TV and when I saw him coming up the escalator I was overjoyed, walked right up to him, offered my hand and he looked at me as if I was a long lost friend and we shook hands. He was am awesome man. You could just feel his niceness emanating from him. Thanks for this!! ❤️

[@akrenwinkle]

I waved hello and said to Mr. Nabors, "Hello. I used to watch your show. I liked it more than Flip Wilson's show." As I recall, they were competitors. He grinned and said "Thank yeeeww." This was at one of those big hotels in Reno, Nevada. Coincidentally, I was going on a down escalator; he was going up. I had just seen Vicki Carr's show. Jim was going to open soon. He was carrying his own suitcase.

[@tammygrove8839]

I Loved Jim Neighbors!!! ❤❤❤ I Loved Gomer Pyle!!!❤❤❤ I still watch him!❤❤❤

[@michaelsinclair3321]

I enjoyed his talent, he had a fantastic opera style voice a very good dynamic singer and a very good actor, his personal life was his business that's not what I focused on, I focused on his talent and his personality and the attitude of the man which was very nice and down to earth add to that his talent which made him more enjoyable, I enjoyed the Andy Griffith show and his Gomer Pyle USMC show and the character he portrayed, many good times and great memories.

[@akrenwinkle]

​@@michaelsinclair3321 Nertz! (That's Old People for "baloney.") I always get a chuckle when I see on these boards some version of "it's none of my business" or "It's their own business." It really means "I'm willing to overlook or forgive what they do privately." But NOBODY ever writes that about straight men and women dating, marrying, or just having random sex. Then one doesn't have to look the other way. That's perfectly okay, move along... there's nothing to forgive. Religious nincompoops and social conservatives never have the self-awareness to know they're haters. They always think they're fair, even progressive, because they tolerate unpopular groups and don't want to kill them. They think people with the "wrong" sexuality can co-exist, even be successful and popular, if they don't "flaunt" it or "rub our faces in it" or other euphemisms for not hiding. Did I mention Nertz?

[@michaelsinclair3321]

@@akrenwinkle Well look at it this way, it's really the same thing considering there are alot of stars/ celebrities that you know absolutely nothing about and people still go to shows buy their merchandise etc and they may do in and everything it's just not been uncovered so really people are going on what they see not their private life but appreciating the talent the singing or the acting or the comedic side whatever until they know otherwise and many times if people do by chance find something out I doubt very seriously they throw away the records they bought or stop watching reruns of a really good movie they love that that person made, it comes down to this, the problem people have is that they're always trying to control other people or stay in other people business and not taking care of their own up to par, people like to gossip and be judgemental and appoint themselves holier than thou yet they complain about the Karens too?? The world would be a bit better if people stayed in their lanes and concentrate on their own problems and lives and work them out and let others do the same as long as it's not effecting you them me or anyone else, whatever Jim Nabors was or did is God's business not man's which he says plainly do not judge I am the only judge because I am the only one worthy to judge, I do believe crime and criminal behavior is on the flip side of that however where I feel it's people's right to know who criminals are and what they do for the safety of people and society overall, when I watched his show noone knew all this so now many many years later when people find this out what are people supposed to do pretend they didn't like the show and start bashing a dead man???😳 Or talk about the what they did know about him HIS TALENT which again is what made him popular and appealing soooo noone is looking the other way as you say that's just your interpretation of the situation but in reality perhaps people aren't looking to condemn everyone because they already know no people are perfect and the man is dead there is nothing to look the other way about.

[@DarrinCarlson]

Excellent and heartwarming, Matt. I live in Hawaii and Jim was loved by the community. Fun fact: he had a macadamia nut farm for many years that he jokingly called “Gomer’s Nuts”.

[@MichaelBristow137]

I actually Loled at this...

[@JPMJPM]

This made me smile. Thank you.

[@garyturner5204]

ROTFLMAO! THAT is hysterical! Gotta remember that one - Gomer’s Nuts!

[@EphemeralProductions]

too funneh! :)

[@andrewbloom7637]

@@garyturner5204 Interestingly enough, it could be misinterpreted as "Gomer is nuts", or perhaps "Gomer's testicles".

[@tgfabthunderbird1]

In terms of not talking about issues like Vietnam in Gomer Pyle, I heard Nabors say on a show, that most of the young fellows that acted as extras in the program were real-deal Marines, and many of them were the first to go over there. He added, sadly, a lot of them did not come back. I grew up watching the show, and being from a small town, I understood the humor of the character and enjoyed how Gomer would send up his tough as nails Sgt. all the time! I knew nothing about Nabors being gay until well after the rumors with Hudson had passed. It didn't matter; when you're assumed to be gay because you are different, it's no fun. Nabors showed incredible dignity and never took himself too seriously. To me, he was funny, a great singer, and a very decent man. I would love to have met him.

[@11UncleBooker22]

I was born in the mid sixties and as a small child remember the adults discussing Jim's sexuality. That never stopped my entire family from watching Jim's TV shows, etc. Actually, it seems everyone new someone or had in the closet family members way back then. Anyway, Jim was a big influence in comedy, his sex life was just a part of who he was.

[@Armistead_MacSkye]

Yes, and comedian Moms Mabley, Liberace, and singers like Johnny Mathis.

[@lorikraus8087]

At age 16, I had no idea what homosexuality was. As I was walking out the door with my cousin to hit Bourbon Street (NOLA- where I grew up), my mom told us about the dangers and the sights we’d see. She mentioned gay people and I know she saw my wild bulging eyes of disbelief. I thought she was making it up! At first I saw those people as disgusting, but over the years I realized I had family members and some distant acquaintances who were gay….I didn’t hate them! I know God loves us all and He expects us to love all our brothers and sisters, so I woke up with a whole new attitude. For I believe we ARE our brothers and sisters keepers! Thank you for your lovely story!

[@kawaiinelson8419]

I totally agree ❤😁

[@redeliadickson5071]

​

[@sarahpayne2361]

@@lorikraus8087 Your living in a delusional fantasy God loves us all but he hates sin and clearly his words tells us that homosexuality is a sin of the flesh Look it up for yourself

[@richardalexander7089]

That was the MOST comprehensive coverage of his life I've ever watched. Thank you for taking the time to put this all together.

[@Vicki1951]

All I can say is thank you for providing Jim Nabors life story. He was a very gifted person.

[@guyvanarsdall7686]

You could always tell Carol and Jim had a special connection. They both seemed genuine and unaffected by their fame. Knowing that she reached out to help her friend in his time of need proves that.

[@denisesurber8176]

They were so much alike that way, being genuine people.

[@harperstacey9604]

Carol burnett said that Jim nabors was like a brother to her. From Ms. Harper Stacey.

[@katluann]

Jim was there for Carol when her daughter died! They went through a lot of life things together.

[@paulridenour1086]

You are correct about Carol. I wrote her once just to tell her how much my wife appreciated her show when she was growing up. Helped her get through some bad times. To my surprise, Carol sent back a signed 5x7 black and photo of herself.

[@nikradik]

Yes she loved him and the guy from Mash

[@michaeldelacruzawesome5556]

It was such an honour to work with him here in Hawai’i was called Jim Nabors Polynesian review I was one of his original backup singer I love singing with him he was such a humble man and he came to my High school graduation having his assistant delivering my gift while he’s waiting in his convertible car beautiful memories and I always will cherish rest in peace brother 🙏❤️🙏

[@Hpy2BNana]

Thank you for this. I've always loved Jim Nabors. My very favorite performance, however, will always be Gomer getting strength from a security guard and Abraham Lincoln (my hero!) allowing him to sing Impossible Dream. I am 61 now and still cry every time. Truly inspirational in so many ways. ❤

[@peterkinberger9741]

As a Marine in the 70's, I remember watching Gomer Pyle, USMC, everyday on the barracks tv. I even remember the build up to his first USMC show prior to being in the Corps. Every Marine watched Pyle and Sgt. Carter in those days. Even today when old reruns come on Marines still watch him. I guess when you have Chesty Puller type Marines enjoying Gomer Pyle you have created a humanness in the toughest fighting force in the world. We were young killing machines back then where little could make us even smile, Gomer made us laugh. Thank you for presenting this vignette about Jim Nabors. He was a kind and loving soul. I will take his memories to the grave !

[@dar6095]

Awesome yeah I loved that show when I was a kid and always wondered about the realism good to hear a marines take on this. Thanks God bless our marines and jim neighbors. Semper Fi 🇺🇸

[@sammyandoliver7522]

So well said. I loved Gomer Pyle and still watch him every night on MeTV. Jim Nabors was a special and kind human being.

[@DanielBrown-lt3if]

I was born in the early 60s and remember watching Gomer Pyle it seemed a little depressing to me like they were all in prison haha.

[@brendasears8668]

My brother joined the Marines because he got drafted into the Army. The Marines let him finish high school...We knew he would have to go to VN,,,,,but he came home ....thank God

[@nancylane4362]

Jim Nabors had an amazing voice! Carol Burnett always had him on every first show of the season for good luck!

[@nobodysdarling346]

My grandfathers cousin was Andy Griffith and I’m grateful this beautiful story is interwoven with my families. What a beautiful man just trying to share such a beautiful gift with the world, only to have hoards of scared humans potentially turn on him because of the choice of whom he spends his life with. Beautiful man, beautiful story, beautiful ending ♥️….plus Carol!!!!!!

[@Amber12332]

So are you kin to Andy Griffith 🤔? I'm confused

[@caroline1365]

@@Amber12332 Your grandfather’s 1st cousin would be your 1st cousin 2x removed, still close relation

[@mickeylumbo8789]

Thank you for this post. Nabors was a solid performer, a stand-up citizen, and a national treasure. May God rest his soul.

[@kayakkim]

Being gay is blasphemy against God. Unfortunately, I'm sad to say, God IS NOT blessing his soul.

[@CP-vj5bd]

This is a wonderful account of an even more wonderful man. I vividly remember (since I live in Indiana) when he sang our state song at the Indy 500 for the very 1st time. I couldn't believe that voice came out of 'Gomer's' mouth! He was such a talented yet humble man!

[@cc1k435]

It was always sort of jarring to me as a kid when he would start to sing. 😆

[@kathrynude3454]

I had the joy of having Mr Nabors on several of my flights to HNL. This was a nine hour flight where I got to spend time with this gentleman. He was the most kind, gentle soul, graceful, respectful individual I ever met. We truly lost a wonderful human being.

[@DebNKY]

It came through in everything about him. I was a kid, but I always loved him.

[@matthewpaul6904]

So glad he lived to see the world change for the better. Goes to show how nice guys in show biz have no shortage of loyal friends when times are hard.

[@mike48877]

Another good job, Matt. Beautiful, the way Jim's friends stood by him. Beautiful, the way the public accepted his Marriage.

[@jonmajarucon51]

Thank you for doing this. I didnt know that Jim lived till 87. God bless him. He brought a LOT of happiness to my community growing up!!!

[@billmoore7133]

I don't think that will happen.

[@ttintagel]

We had his Christmas album when I was a kid. His voice always makes me think of Christmas, even now.

[@bbb462cid]

wonderful voice

[@maureenogorman8740]

Me too !

[@LovelyHerbanRenewal]

My goodness I'd forgotten how much I loved Gomer Pyle-USMC when I was a kid. It was in re-runs by then but I remember watching it. I'm so glad it was finally safe enough and he was finally comfortable enough to come out.

[@denisesurber8176]

I remember watching reruns of this and The Beverly Hillbillies on weekday mornings. Great memories.

[@bartpike441]

I met him when I was playing bass for Jerry Reed he was doing the opening act which was comedy before we played our concert. He was so so nice there was an after-party with all the artists and musicians comedians. There was so much talent in that room it was awesome to see. Seeing this video reminded me of how kind and gracious he was. My girlfriend at the the time loved a necklace he was wearing and she told him he took it off and gave it to her it was so sweet and meant so much to her I'm actually tearing up now thinking about it because unfortunately she is passed away that necklace went with her. She always cherished it. I'm sure they have met up in heaven.

[@MattBaume]

Oh wow, what a lovely memory -- he brought so much joy to people with his work, it's nice to hear he was kind in person too.

[@seandoyle2983]

You played with Jerry Reed? As a Bassist I am beyond envious. I hope you enjoyed the experience.

[@cellostrings2522]

Rock Pile. Ha ha. What a great job you did demonstrating Jim’s awesome talent. He really was one of a kind. Thank you.

[@fashiondiva6972]

My grandfather was a Presbyterian minister and a huge Jim Nabors fan. When he retired as a minister, my grandparents bought a home about a mile and a half from Jim’s property on Oahu. Over the years they became friends. They met and befriended Don Ho through Jim too. My grandparents were snowbirds so they were only in Hawaii in the winter making them treasure their time with their friends even more. My grandpa built schools, medical clinics and churches in central and South America and Africa as a secondary and their new friends were generous donors, without ever being asked. My grandpa knew they were gay and didn’t care, which was shocking given their church’s teachings on homosexuality. Thankfully my grandpa knew how to think for himself. He and grandma simply saw their friends as the kind, talented and generous people they were.

[@johnreidy2804]

So, your Presbyterian minister grandfather cared more about the money he could raise from his new homosexual friends than he did about what the Bible says about homosexuals.

[@laurawilliams5357]

amen to that

[@johnsheppard4428]

I can't tell if that's a "burn them at the stake unless they're rich and famous" or "it's ok they're gay in private but we're gonna pretend they're bad in public" comment.

[@kilroywashere1828]

Bible speaks against it... So if you condone sin..your part of that sin.. Must have not been a good preacher then believed what the Bible said

[@debraseymore6254]

Don't come back.

[@winluben2909]

I was a young kid when I saw Jim on Andy Griffith and on Gomer Pyle USMC . When I first heard him sing I nearly fell over. Wow! This was an amazing video and thank you so much.

[@paradigm_conjecture]

At first, I was caught off guard by the shirtless overalls, but your professional delivery made it charming.

[@stacey8420]

This was awesome. I always enjoyed Jim Nabors, still watch Gomer Pyle. What a talented man, with a beautiful voice and soul.

[@katietoole8345]

I had only ever really known him as Gomer Pyle until just last year when I realized he sang my favorite version ever of "Go Tell It on the Mountain" (that I found on one of those $5 Christmas compilation CDs Walmart used to sell in a bin.) What an amazing voice!

[@carlacook5181]

What a great story, I actually met Jim Nabors when I was seven or eight, my brother and I had been taught that the people "in" the TV weren't real, imagine our "surprise, surprise" while out on Halloween night when we walked up to a porch and Gomer Pyle was sitting there handing out candy, he said that famous "GOLLAY!" but we were frozen in our steps because we knew he wasn't real, our Granny told us that he was home visiting his Mother and we did eventually go up to the porch, he let us touch him on the arm to show us that he was real, he talked very gently to us and put us at ease, we always remembered how kind he was and I am so glad that he was able to finally marry the love of his life...take care

[@mr.delightful7253]

Lucky for he liked men and not little girls

[@Tonabillity]

@@mr.delightful7253 Yikes! What a maroon 🙄

[@mollycrochets]

Thats a wonderful memory

[@DanielBrown-lt3if]

I was a fan but I had no idea he lived that long he certainly disappeared from TV for a lonnnnng time I loved that guy

[@glendabarton45barton48]

@@mr.delightful7253 You're deliberately making false equivalency. Pedophilia is a serious derangement; homosexuality is not

[@thanos7110]

Wow, this was and incredible documentary/biography on jim. He was one on my favorite humans. Me, my grandmother and grandfather watched andy Griffith when i was a kid.

[@KaiTiura]

Wonderful video. Jim Nabors was a true American treasure. No denying it.

[@jennymunday7913]

I like that Jim Nabors was as sweet in real life as he portrayed on TV. Great Video!

[@mikec886]

I've heard stories of people moving out west to breathe better...today we have sprays

[@mikec886]

I've heard stories of people moving out west to breathe better...

[@godetonter4764]

@@RadioRich100 that ain't a pretty picture. Too much information

[@anitakysor1618]

@@RadioRich100 was your remark really that necessary? Shame on you!

[@cinemaland55]

What a beautiful tribute to a great guy - growing up with him on all of those TV shows - here I am at 66 - with more than a few tears in my eyes. Thank you is not enough for this very special 25 minute slice of a very special life!

[@barbaraknight4203]

Me too @ Howie T....I got you by a year 😁

[@raymondmailloux9593]

@@barbaraknight4203 beautiful tribute to a great guy not because there gay !

[@cherylreynolds3637]

@@barbaraknight4203 ppfgg

[@savage22bolt32]

I always liked the guy. Knew he was weird, never knew he was attracted to other males. That's REALLY weird!

[@maryowens8763]

He was a great person! Love the guy!

[@DerekWilliamsMusic]

"The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice". Thank you, Matt for preparing this heartrending documentary. What a wonderful ending to this tortuous tale. Nabor's friends stood by hm, and he lived long enough to see a masive reversal of public attitidues towards LGBT+ people.

[@swamprat69er]

It is NOBODIES business what goes on behind closed doors between two Or more people that are of age.

[@SecretSquirrelFun]

I grew up in Australia. My mother is from Australia, but my father and 2 of my 4 siblings were born and raised in a little town in Alabama . My father served in the US Navy. My father also absolutely loved watching the “Gomer Pyle USMC” show, McHales Navy (PT -73). and Gilligan’s Island But Gomer Pyle was always his favourite show, along with Tom & Jerry 🤣. Every day, after school, if Dad was home,!he would sit with me and we’d watch Gomer Pyle repeats together 🙂 (and Samurai too, Samurai was on after school also 🤣🤣) When I was very young, I travelled with my father to Hawaii. He was attending some sort of reunion as well as some kind of ceremony happening at the Pearl Harbour memorial site - I don’t remember the details. But one thing I do remember is when one evening, dad and I arrived outside a restaurant for dinner. My dad began squeezing my hand and pointed out a white Rolls Royce that was parked right outside the front door of the restaurant. Dad the asked me if I could read the letters that appeared on each of the car’s doors. They read JN. By this time, my usually level headed, calm father was becoming very excited. After I’d read the letters out to him, dad asked me if I knew who’s initials those were. I didn’t. He smiled and said - it’s Jim Nabors. I was clueless. He then picked me up and whispered that the fancy, monogrammed car belonged to Gomer Pyle. That Gomer Pyle was eating at the same restaurant as we were. Sure enough, we walked on inside, and there he was, sitting alone eating his dinner ha ha. It was the first time I had seen someone from the television in “real life”. I was excited about that for ages, and my dad would tell the story and remind me of it often. My dad would laugh and tell his friends and family that “WE” had dinner with Jim Nabors in Hawaii 🙂 Ah, happy memories, good memories. Thanks for creating and sharing this fantastic and fascinating video. Much appreciated. Take care. 🙂🐿🌈❤️ [sydney australia] Move it!! Move it!! Move it!!

[@MissionaryForMexico]

When I was stationed at Kaneohe Bay Marine Corp Air Station, back in 83-87. I was hired and a few other Marines to open door's at his home in Honolulu, during a large party he was throwing. He made sure all Marines were allowed to eat the catered meal that was provided at his party. I met and talked to many famous celebrates there. Jim even had the caterer make us Marines a meal to go, when we left his party. He sang played the piano. Extremely talented man. When I had the opportunity to talk to him, he gave me his undivided attention. He had said he had much respect for our military and how the Marines were in there dress blues. We wore our blues at his party. He was professional and respectable at all times.

[@trojanmoondoggie4582]

Seems to have had a great life. He was talented. Rich. Beautiful home in Hawaii. A lot of friends. Being gay never really got in his way all that much. He had to keep it quiet but it didn't keep him from success, or having a relationship that lasted a lot longer than most openly gay guys have. One that tracked well back into the 70s. And the dude was much younger than him and a fireman, no less. Add to that all the young Marines who liked him and apparently didn't judge him. Pretty good life actually.

[@monicajohnson639]

Nothing can ever make me stop loving Gomer Pyle/Jim Nabors

[@sharonbertolli339]

Wow!!!! Who didn’t love Jim Nabors!!! I mean honestly he was the epitome of a beautiful beautiful loving soul ♥️✨♥️✨♥️⭕️⭕️⭕️ Great Video Tribute!!!! You just know the VIBE AND BIG LOVE ENERGY ‼️✨♥️💜🥂Thank you so very much!!! ✨🥂🔥💜

[@kathyreinhardt8998]

Thank you so much for remembering Jim Nabors. I was just a kid when Gomer Pyle USMC and never missed an episode! So sad that he's gone.

[@1401minstrel]

As someone who has a personal connection, I can say for certain that Jim had a very positive impact on his community in Hawaii. And that impact continues today in the form of two not for profit organizations that exist on the land that used to belong to Jim: one a National Tropical Botanical Garden, and the other a community farm. To the locals he was not just Gomer Pyle, or a great singer, actor or comedian. He was a guy with a lot of money who cared about people and the land.

[@granvillesexton7102]

I was always fan cause Jim seemed a heck of a nice guy which in my young mind appeared difficult to fake.

[@ginnysnyder9703]

I remember his singing as a child !!!! What a Voice !!

[@burlfaulkii6496]

Carol Burnette adored him & always praises who he was... He had an amazing ❤

[@srobertweiser]

That's funny, when my grandmother died I took a stack of records from her that was mostly Hawaiian but there were a few Jim Nabors and Liberace albums in there too. Oddly, she also had Alice Cooper's Love It To Death, A Passion Play by Jethro Tull, some Wings album, I think it was Speed of Light, but I couldn't believe it when I found Sabbath, Bloody Sabbath.

[@sammyandoliver7522]

@@srobertweiser That must have been a shocker.

[@stephentoto6564]

My favorite tv show of all time is "Gomer Pyle",the chemistry between Nabors and Frank Sutton on that show was incredible,whenever I needed a laugh I would watch that show.Thank's for posting!

[@badabing9143]

I couldn't watch Gomer Pyle cuz I couldn't stand the way Sergeant Carter treated him shouting and yelling and always being nasty to him I was too sensitive I guess

[@Cynthia6031]

Always loved Jim nabors. Had my suspicions but didn't care even back then in the days that he was afraid to come out. We didn't care. He was funny, lovable, and had the voice of an angel. RIP Jim nabors you are so missed.❤

[@annesouza9688]

I met Jim Nabors at a dry cleaning company that I was working at and asked him about how he liked Hawaii so much and he said that it was wonderful and very beautiful and he loves it here

[@jennyharrell5938]

Jim is so loved and cherished here in Indiana that after he died, the whole state was grieving. We had a state mandate that all flags would be flown at half staff in his honor. At the 2018 Indianapolis 500, they just played a melody of him singing "Back Home Again in Indiana" (our state song) instead of having someone else sing it. For a gay man to be THAT treasured in a state that has a law that states that you can refuse service to someone based on their sexuality, is truly amazing. RIP JIM!💜😭

[@darreth0104]

"...For a gay man to be THAT treasured..." Sure... now if people would actually ACKNOWLEDGE that he was gay instead of pulling the old "I'm SURE he just hadn't met the right WOMAN!"

[@reginaldbowls7180]

Indiana is basically NA*I germany. the people there are responsible for their laws. They should be all cancelled.

[@sammyandoliver7522]

@@reginaldbowls7180 You're just a nutty far left liberal. I don't agree with the gay lifestyle but I sure as hell don't agree with denying someone service or a place to live just because they're gay. I can't believe they would have a law like that in this day and age. Actually I can't see denying someone service in any age. You can disagree with their lifestyle but that's going way too far. You can just ignore something you don't agree with and leave it at that. I love Jim. I didn't know he was gay.

[@darthbenevolent1733]

@@reginaldbowls7180 It's definitely not na*i germany. I live here too. Sensationalism.

[@SayYoJ]

@@sammyandoliver7522 But that’s exactly what’s going on and what’s been … sooooo yeah, you’re LOUD & WRONG! So I’d delete that comment! Because that law is alive and well & being upheld! In 2021!!!!!!

[@andytaylor5476]

Thank you for this bio of Jim Nabors. I grew up in the 50s and 60s and Jim's sitcoms were popular at home. I remember the rumor about Rock and Jim being lovers but my gay friends believed it was a joke and we laufhed, How wonderful he had a partner all those years! And wonderful that many in showbiz liked him for being him! Rip Jim and thanks for your talent and fun..

[@a.j.soleil3955]

Oh my god you did such an amazing job Matt! This video came up on my for you page and I am so so glad that it did. What a beautiful tribute to the life of such a wonderful actor💗

[@robleo2453]

I've always loved Jim... He was very talented and had an amazing voice. Whom he loved was his own business

[@Spookybluelights]

I'm so glad we have people out here like Matt showing our history like this. I had no idea about any of this! Also, good for her, bagging a handsome firefighter.

[@cornellnewsome934]

He was one of my Favorite as a kid. Glad he found peace before he died. Everyone deserves happiness in their lifetime. He was Truly Amazing! May he Forever Rest In Peace

[@ramonar6180]

I got cold chills when he started singing at the Indy 500. I wish he'd sung the whole song. I always loved Jim Naboo's. What a wonderful guy & a beautiful voice. Bless his heart!💕🐞💙🌈

[@Dragonomics42]

Here you go: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYjOY6Z-brWXq7M

[@NanetteG.-ii4xy]

Yes, agree 👍❤! Hasn't been another at the Indy.. to even come close to his talent !!

[@Veronna79]

I was a small child watching & loving Gomer Pile with family. Jim Nabors & Rock Hudson was always oñ our TV. Gomer Pile when he would sing it was awesome. Rock Hudson was every woman's heartthrob, what a handsome man. Both men were great Amazing Actors. We loved these guy & if love brought them together, at least they had love & are eternally together. Bless the memories.🌟💯❤⭐

[@badbiker666]

This was one of the very best celebrity profiles I have ever seen. Thank you so much, Matt, for putting this together. I never realized what a great life Jim Nabors lived. I feel like my life is better for having seen this video.

[@lethrbear32]

Jim was a constant in my childhood. He was such an effervescent presence. I don't mourn celebrity deaths much, but I was torn up about his.

[@Debbie338]

Wow. What a fascinating story. I remember him as Gomer, but I was a little kid. Great historical perspective here.

[@lolacarter5015]

I remember watching all those shows when I was young I'm 64 and Jim Nabors just seemed like one of the people that was one of the nicest people in the world who gives a damn who he was in love with he was an excellent actor and he's so kind this is one of the best videos on KZbin I watch KZbin like I watch TV only I don't watch the TV I Watch KZbin....❤❤❤❤ thank you so much for this information cuz a lot of this information I didn't know I just used to watch him a lot when I was a little kid this is a brilliant video thank you and blessings please do more on all the older stars

[@paulharms7253]

Well done, Matt. Due to my father being a well known opera singer and stage performer in the 70s and 80s, I personally experienced what you describe about gay men being open amongst close friends, but closeted to the rest of the world. It was pretty much the M.O. of the industry. The majority of our family's male friends were gay (even with my parent being Republicans). And yes, my dad even got to sing with Gomer once. My dad loved it and we were astonished at the "dichotomy" of how that man could sing after growing up watching him in Gomer Pyle USMC. Thank you for this tribute.

[@larrywakeman4371]

RIGHT is RIGHT.

[@DavidStevenson-yh8sb]

@@larrywakeman4371 you can hope and ...um pray 🤔

[@donaldauguston9740]

This was wonderful and so are YOU. Thank you for posting and have a great autumn. DA

[@tmsrobabbott]

I knew Jim for several years. He was and Stan is/are the most authentic and exceptional human beings, great neighbors and people of the highest integrity, honor and I was blessed to know them both and to be able to call them my friends.

[@College-Boy]

Nice job on this real-life story. Jim was an extraordinary talent. Made so many people smile.

[@lisaparsons4124]

Yes 🤣 he was hilarious and Sargent Carter and as Gomerpile

[@emilypassaro1847]

I absolutely loved this episode Matt. So glad I caught it live, great work!!

[@MattBaume]

Yay thanks for joining for the premiere!

[@rogeniagallow9447]

Matt, this is the first time on your channel, won't be the last! He was a special actor to me, as a shy homely little girl! I loved your story telling, I am sure he is shining on you, for telling his story so beautifully!

[@HotPeridot2]

This is my first time on this channel and it won't be my last either. Yes, Jim Nabors was a special actor to me also. I enjoyed the way Matt told the story around Jim Nabors' life. Most of the things I had known for years, even before Jim Nabors and his husband got married (I'm 69 so grew up watching all of the shows Jim Nabors was a part of). I came of age during his time on TV.

[@gandalf0987]

well you don't shine at all when you're in Hell

[@bryancarlson3673]

A excellent presentation! Thank you very much!!

[@UnholyTriforceDelenn]

I always adored Jim Nabors. His voice, his humour, his comedy. They were always the best and he accepted everybody just the way they were. I had the biggest crush on him growing up. Thanks Matt, for doing this video on him. Also, the shirtless denim overalls look? Adorable! :)

[@robertgotschall1246]

I lost track of Jim Nabors in 69. I spent 69 and 70 deployed in the Middle East, then to the 6th fleet. By the time I got back to the world in 74, he and that era were a distant memory. I’m very familiar with the times, albeit with a different perspective. Glad to hear that it all ended well enough for him. I appreciate these snippets from my lost years.

[@badabing9143]

God bless you Robert Gotschall glad you made it back🇺🇸✌️

[@the_resourceful]

A kind, genuine person. So glad Andy gave him a chance.

[@audreyjordan3372]

HE WAS A GOOD SINGER, GOOD ACTOR AND GREAT PERSON.

[@Gg-yb5en]

Yo babe, Andy's gay as well, funny how both exemplified Americana 😅

[@lemorab1]

Thank you for this documentary about the life and career of Jim Nabors. I have never seen The Andy Griffith Show or Gomer Pyle, though I grew up with both. I knew who Jim Nabors was, though, and I remember the rumors about Jim and Rock Hudson. I have a greater appreciation of him after watching this. I never knew he had that gorgeous operatic voice.

[@artisstrong8949]

A hell of an actor with an angelic voice and a gentle, southern disposition. Thank you for the great in-depth look of Jim Nabors life. Very well done!!!

[@HotPeridot2]

He did have an angelic voice and he was such a gentle soul.

[@VivianzFavs]

I live in Indpls and the Indianapolis 500 and Jim was just a given. Even us young crazies in the snake pit stood quietly to hear him sing. It’s never been the same since

[@beckybirdsell2290]

If you come back to this site, Ms. Wheeler, I grew up close to 30th Street and Lafayette Road. I was married in the little Baptist church that sits at the edge of the "North 40 Field" entrance to the Speedway grounds on 30th Street. Indy was a "neon cornfield" then.

[@ms.krueger2660]

I loved Jim Nabors. His voice was amazing!! My Mom had his records. ❤️. Just loved him. I’m from Alabama. Love your overalls. My Dad wore them every day. ❤️

[@iocat]

I loved Gomer Pyle and to get to see him every year at Indy 500 was such a treat. It's really telling that his friends took care of him when his show was cancelled. R.I.P.

[@raysmith9324]

Thanks for the fantastic video. Grew up just loving Jim Nabors on Andy Griffith and Gomer Pyle re runs. Just so warm he always felt like family. My grandfather would always bring up his singing voice. Nearly cried watching this. Well done

[@meechiebaby493]

Makes me long for the days of growing up. Hanging out with my dad watching this hilarious guy on TV. Tearing up just a little...I'm as old as my dad was when we would watch old black and whites together. Rest in peace, Daddy. Miss you so, so much.

[@hankhillsnrrwurethra]

My mom told me about the Rock Hudson rumor and framed it as the evil of gossip. "It's probably not even true, but it's the first thing I think of when I see either of them and that's terrible and not fair." Years later it turned out to be true. Whaddaya know. Mom had lived in the Chicago YWCA during the height of the pansy craze (I see now). She went on a ton of beard dates. It was trickier explaining that one, lol. "I got to dress up and go out, they got a date to whatever function they had to go to. It was great!"

[@b1riz]

I have always loved his voice and his acting my family would watch him on TV and my mother would enjoy his gospel music sad he is not with us but he has touched our family rest in peace

[@rosesmith6925]

As a child born in 1961 all those shows, Gomer Pyle, Andy Griffith, Petticoat Junction, Green Acres were some of my favorites. I mean for a kid growing up in N. J. it was like visiting another country 😂. Also my favorite uncle was gay, although at the time I didn't know it. It just all combined what my life was really all about and about accepting people for who they are and how they treat others. When my son told me he was gay I just hugged him and said "I will always love you no matter what, for you are the sweetest man I have ever known". I guess life does prepare us accordingly ❤☮

[@badabing9143]

🥰❤️ God bless ya Rose Smith

[@lesabeaty7415]

You're a wonderful Mom.

[@delibakerytravel]

Gay, Now 63, I will go to my grave why my parents couldn't love me? Your Comment Was Beautiful.Thank You, From San Diego 🌴

[@badabing9143]

@@delibakerytravel So sad I'm very sorry for this. I have a gay cousin who passed away and his mother, my aunt through marriage, would not forgive him! He would beg her to try to understand. Do you know, she wouldn't even forgive him on his deathbed, as he laid pleading with her. That's is just so cold she always seemed so nice, but no that isn't a nice person, to deprive her own flesh and blood, her only child couldn't send him off to heaven with a light heart and a weight lifted off his heart. He had told me many times how nasty she'd talk to him after he came out to her. #ColdHearted 😡

[@katluann]

My husbands childhood friend was gay and when my husband had a aortic dissection and was on life support and fighting septic shock he was only one of his friends who could take it. Septic shock isn’t pretty and hard for some people to deal with. My husband by the way lived and Jesus just walked in and healed him One day! Anyway we went to Chilis after we visited my husband and I didn’t even get sat down before my friend said…Do you think there’s a place for someone like me in Gods heaven? I said you were raised in church by a Christian mother you know the answer to that question! Nothing has changed! There’s no loop holes! You know you have to turn from your gay lifestyle. He was 65 and he had not had a boyfriend in years! So I said is it worth it to call yourself gay? Which of course he said this is way I was born! I did my job which is to love him and accept him as is but I’m not his judge! My gay friend had many political and religious discussions over twenty plus years and unlike online our gay friend respected that we were Christians and we respected his feelings as a gay man so we always loved through the discussions! People would say he’s gay you can’t be friends! I said just watch me! At the end of the day it comes down to our friendship had nothing to do with him being gay! He died last year and I hope he turned to Jesus in the end. We were away so I don’t know. I would do it again though no question. Jesus said the greatest command was that you loved each other!

[@normanbelanger7785]

such a sweet tribute to a sweet, kind man. people in his life loved and cared for him throughout his long life, and that is a testament to the man himself.

[@patdickson6740]

I watched your video on Rope too. You're making very entertaining and informative videos about people and the stories about them I don't think were widely known. I have quickly become a fan of your work here on KZbin. Keep up the good work. I really enjoy these biographies.

[@enigmawyoming5201]

Great job in portraying Jim Nabor’s career. I’m a totally straight guy, raised in the most conservative part of America, but I’m so happy to hear about people finally being accepted to be happy just being who they are. I wish it wasn’t so difficult I the past for people I know about during my own life, but also relieved to know stupid prejudice against people who are just not like stereotypical societal expectations is waning. I know I could have written this better, so I’ll just summarize with ‘I just wish any human can be who they truly are without judgement against them.’ And just freaking be happy as long as they aren’t hurting anybody else! Is that too much to wish for???

[@savage22bolt32]

Gay folks don't bother me, but woke folks are trying to dismantle this country. What's next?

[@enigmawyoming5201]

@@savage22bolt32 - I barely even recognize a gay couple anymore. It … just doesn’t even register too much other than realizing this person is with that person. I actually respect them for not caring how I feel.. much like how I feel about other people towards me myself. It’s…. so??? I’m feel far more distant in attitude with somebody that is so blankedly not in my line of thinking about me and my Ruger 10-22 that I keep in my ranch truck at all times to keep prairie dog populations down in my pastures. ;)

[@katluann]

That’s why Jim was so generous! My Aunt was his favorite girl when he came to town four times a year and one day she took us to see him and just nothing but sugar. God had a job for Jim and he did it very well and Jim loved the military guys. My husband and friends waited for him outside the back door of a club in Hawaii and he was very good to them. Jim never let on to us when we met him but it doesn’t change anything for me. He’s still a good hearted loving man.

[@mickeybarton9077]

You must not read the Bible man does not lay down with man

[@ThomasSmith-dx9wq]

@@mickeybarton9077 you must read the Bible, man must not judge man!! Did you not read that part???

[@dancingnature]

Sexuality in humans is complex. Sex,gender, chromosomes and external genitalia just don’t match for some people. That’s nature! The Bible is full of ignorant nonsense about nature!

[@CourtofRecord]

@@mickeybarton9077 it also says money is everything : Ecclesiastes 10 🤯😱🤣

[@sammyandoliver7522]

@@CourtofRecord It also says it's easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the gates of heaven.

[@carasmussen27]

Great story. As a child I can remember watching Gomer Pyle as well as the Andy Griffith Show. Wow what a voice he had. Thank you. I'm glad I saw this and watched.

[@lich.possum]

How rare is it that the most controversial thing an actor did was be themselves

[@bobsatawake964]

I will never forget the moment I was a flight attendant for AA, and Jim Nabors was my passenger on a DC-10 from HNL-DFW, it was like it was yesterday!

[@thebeehivenailsmshunnybrow9641]

About Jim. The only thing I will ever see is him as a person who's talented, and spent his life entertaining the world. Thanks Jim! ❤

[@christinejemison2182]

Absolutely what did his sexuality have to do with anything? He was beautiful and a wonderful actor. That's all that matters.

[@ampollard7041]

The fact that he was "so southern" that the industry didn't know "what to do with him" is crazy. Especially being that a staggering amount of Northerns migrated from the South

[@vickigraham8600]

He was AWSOME

[@thebeehivenailsmshunnybrow9641]

@@vickigraham8600 Indeed!

[@vickigraham8600]

That man had set of pipes