EXCLUSIVE

An enormous family fight has erupted over 2 of the most iconic TV theme songs in HISTORY.

A dude named Earle Hagen wrote the opens for "The Andy Griffith Show" and "The Dick Van Dyke Show." It doesn't matter how old you are ... you know these songs.

Hagen died in 2008, but the royalties keep streaming in. The 2 songs have netted $390,402 since 2011 ... not bad for compositions from shows that aired in the early 60's.

Here's the rub. BMI has collected the money and is required to cut a check to the rightful survivor ... Hagen's widow -- his second wife of 3 years -- and kids are in a fight for the loot.

So BMI wants a judge to decide who should get paid.

Anyway, the songs are still awesome. Take a listen.

Play video content