Jesse Donald Knotts ( July 21 , 1924 -- February 24 , 2006 ) was an American actor best-known for his role on The Andy Griffith Show as Barney Fife . Jesse Donald `` Don '' Knotts ( July 21 , 1924 -- February 24 , 2006 ) was an American comedic actor best known for his portrayal of Barney Fife on the 1960s television sitcom The Andy Griffith Show , a role which earned him five Emmy Awards .