NICHOLASVILLE, Ky. (FOX 56) — David Damron, a devoted fan of “The Andy Griffith Show,” has turned his passion into a unique opportunity. As a regular cast member at Nicholasville’s KCAL Old-Time Radio Theater, Damron brings to life classic radio comedies and dramas from the 1940s. But it’s the beloved 1960s television series that truly captivates him.
A passionate collector, Damron gathers everything related to “The Andy Griffith Show”—from books and scripts to records. “I love how the show imparts valuable life lessons,” he shared.
In 2022, he discovered that a new series called “Mayberry Man,” inspired by a film of the same name and the iconic show, was in development. The project was being crowdfunded, and backers at a specific level could appear on screen.
“I’m a banker by profession, but I’ve always dreamed of acting,” explained Damron, who serves as the chief financial officer at Farmers Bank in downtown Nicholasville. “I can’t just head to L.A. or New York to pursue it, so this was my chance to blend my two passions.”
When Damron submitted his audition video, he went above and beyond, reading for every character in the scene, showcasing his versatility with different props and accents.
Producer Cort Howell praised his audition on a promotional podcast, stating, “That was impressive.”
In November 2022, Damron flew to California, where he spent two hours filming a scene that ultimately runs under two minutes—yet he takes center stage as an irate citizen.
Back home, word has spread quickly through Nicholasville, and Damron finds himself the target of playful teasing about his upcoming role. “When I walk into local restaurants, they joke, ‘Here comes Hollywood,’” he chuckled. Taking it all in stride, he enjoys sharing his excitement about the show.
While fame may be fleeting, Damron feels the experience was worth every bit of effort. “Absolutely. If it had been a different show, I wouldn’t have felt the same pride.”
Now, his collection feels even more special. His name appears on call sheets, and his face graces souvenir playing cards. Though he may not be the star, he proudly embraces his identity as a “Mayberry Man.”
The five-episode series is set to debut on streaming services in May 2024, with Damron making his appearance in the third episode.
