James Thurston "Jim" Nabors (born June 12, 1930, in Sylacauga, Alabama, to Fred and Mavis Nabors) is an American actor, singer, and comedian. He is best known for his portrayal of the good-hearted but naïve Gomer Pyle on two highly successful 1960s sitcoms, The Andy Griffith Show and its spinoff, Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. Given his goofy demeanor and high-pitched voice on both Andy Griffith and Gomer Pyle, it was surprising to many when he revealed a strong baritone singing voice and turned it into a successful recording career. Nabors graduated from the University of Alabama and is a member of Delta Tau Delta Fraternity.