Jim Nabors to retire Indy 500 act in 2014

INDIANAPOLIS, May 21 (UPI) -- Jim Nabors will perform "Back Home Again in Indiana" for the last time during this year's Indianapolis 500.

The 83-year-old actor and singer, known for his annual rendition of the song at the racing event, told KITV4 he was ending his 42-year run as the opening act of the Indy 500.

"It's really a remarkable thing for me. It's the highlight of my year because it's 500,000 of my closest friends and they do make me feel like I'm their best friend," Nabors said of his yearly performance.

The actor went on to say he feels "so blessed" for his career and the incredible people he's met because of it.

The Andy Griffith Show alum first became the opening act for the event in 1972. Nabors told KITV4 that while he still performs he's ready to settle down in his macadamia nut farm on Maui alongside his partner, Stan.

Nabors will perform before the race Sunday at 12:04 p.m.