By Prachi Singh

Aug 26 (IBNS) Andy Griffith, at 83, never ceases to carry the thirst for playing games!

Andy Griffith’s new movie “Play the Game” just opened in his hometown of Mount Airy, NC, it was reported.

The theater in the North Carolina town was packed on Sunday to see Hollywood and TV icon Griffith play a grandfather trying to get back into dating after being widowed.

The independent film, scheduled to be released elsewhere on Friday, also stars Marla Sokoloff, Paul Campbell, Liz Sheridan, Doris Roberts.

Interestingly, in the audience sat one of the original cast of the Andy Griffith Show, Betty Lynn, who played Thelma Lou. Below is the trailer for Andy’s new film.

Not many of the original cast of the Andy Griffith show are still around, Ron Howard of course being the most notable cast member still working. So, in the absence of side kick Don Knotts, it is great to see Andy doing so well.

Griffith, now 83, is best remembered for his as the town of Mayberry’s sheriff from way back in the 60’s. Some younger fans may also remember him as defense attorney Ben Matlock another popular TV series.

In the comedy, he plays a widowed grandfather who learns dating tricks from his grandson to meet women but ends up showing his grandson what it means to win at love, according to the film’s synopsis at www.playthegamemovie.com.

The movie, rated PG-13, also stars Doris Roberts, Liz Sheridan, Paul Campbell and Marla Sokoloff. Griffith also starred in 2007’s “Waitress.” He lives in Roanoke Island, N.C., with his wife, Cindi, according to a 2008 story in The Virginian Pilot.