M*A*S*H Stars Then and Now: A Look Back at TV’s Most Iconic Cast
From Emmy wins to activism and art, these TV veterans redefined their careers off-screen.
Image: ShutterStock
For more than a decade, M*A*S*H set the standard for television comedy, blending humor and heartache in its depiction of a U.S. Army field hospital during the Korean War. Lauded for its mix of unforgettable characters and real-world resonance, the series ran from 1972 to 1983, and its finale remains the most-watched scripted TV episode in U.S. history. Decades later, fans still wonder: What became of the actors who brought Hawkeye, Hot Lips, Radar, and Klinger to life?
A Lasting Legacy: M*A*S*H, TV Phenomenon
M*A*S*H wasn’t just a sitcom—it was a cultural touchstone. Its pioneering storytelling, sharp social commentary, and emotionally complex figures turned it into TV royalty. Many cast members became household names, forever linked to their roles but also forging distinct paths in the decades since the iconic show left the airwaves.
Alan Alda (b. 1936)
Role: Benjamin Franklin “Hawkeye” Pierce
Alan Alda portrayed the wisecracking, big-hearted surgeon, serving as the show’s central moral voice. Alda was not only the star but also wrote, directed, and produced many episodes, shaping the show’s direction. Over its 11 seasons, Alda won five Emmys, six Golden Globe awards, and remains the only cast member to appear in every episode. He famously co-wrote and directed the record-shattering finale.
- After M*A*S*H, Alda acted in acclaimed films including Crimes and Misdemeanors and Bridge of Spies.
- He starred on TV series like The West Wing and 30 Rock.
- Alda is also renowned for science communication, hosting Scientific American Frontiers and launching the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science.
- In recent years, Alda revealed his Parkinson’s diagnosis, remaining active as a writer, podcaster, and advocate.
Wayne Rogers (1933–2015)
Role: John “Trapper” McIntyre
Rogers played the genial, wisecracking Trapper for three seasons, before leaving the show due to creative differences. Despite his comparatively early exit, he remained a crowd favorite.
- Rogers appeared in films, TV dramas, and sitcoms, including starring roles in House Calls and City of Angels.
- He became a successful investor and financial commentator, appearing frequently on Fox Business.
- Rogers passed away in 2015 from pneumonia complications at age 82.
Mike Farrell (b. 1939)
Role: B.J. Hunnicutt
Taking over as Hawkeye’s right-hand man in season 4, Farrell played the compassionate family man B.J. Hunnicutt until the show’s end. Together with Alda, he helped deepen the show’s emotional resonance.
- Post-M*A*S*H, Farrell starred in Providence and guest-starred in dozens of series.
- He built a respected career as a producer and writer.
- Farrell is a noted activist, especially in human rights and social causes.
Harry Morgan (1915–2011)
Role: Col. Sherman T. Potter
Morgan’s arrival as the no-nonsense but deeply caring Colonel Potter gave the series a new authority figure in season 4. A veteran of dozens of film and TV roles, Morgan was instantly at home on set.
- He played the lead in the AfterMASH spinoff and starred in other TV shows.
- Morgan remained active into his nineties, with a legacy spanning police dramas, Westerns, and sitcoms.
- He died peacefully in 2011 at age 96.
Jamie Farr (b. 1934)
Role: Maxwell Q. Klinger
Originally a one-off character, Klinger’s comical quest for a Section 8 discharge by wearing women’s clothing made him a fan-favorite. Farr’s portrayal provided some of the show’s broadest laughs—but also, later, sincere depth.
- Farr continued with AfterMASH and acted in numerous TV series such as The Love Boat and Mad About You.
- He has also enjoyed stage success and remains active in theater.
- Farr works with children’s charities and is a respected figure in philanthropic circles.
Loretta Swit (b. 1937)
Role: Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan
Swit turned the initially steely, by-the-book head nurse into a multi-dimensional character, earning two Emmy awards. With time, her character evolved from comic foil to deeply respected colleague.
- Swit appeared in myriad TV movies, miniseries, and guest spots, including voice work on Batman: The Animated Series.
- She is a passionate animal rights activist and author.
McLean Stevenson (1927–1996)
Role: Lt. Col. Henry Blake
Stevenson’s genial Blake led the 4077th with warmth and a light touch during the show’s early years. His shocking, off-screen death during season 3 remains a legendary moment in TV history.
- Stevenson later starred in sitcoms such as The McLean Stevenson Show and Hello, Larry, though with less success than M*A*S*H.
- He died in 1996 at age 68, leaving an indelible TV legacy.
William Christopher (1932–2016)
Role: Father Francis Mulcahy
As the gentle, compassionate priest, Christopher provided a quiet anchor for the often madcap 4077th. He was among the few to appear throughout the show’s 11 seasons.
- He reunited with co-stars on AfterMASH and appeared on Days of Our Lives as Father Tobias in 2012.
- Christopher died on December 31, 2016, after a battle with cancer.
Gary Burghoff (b. 1943)
Role: Walter “Radar” O’Reilly
Burghoff’s Radar was the childlike, all-seeing company clerk known for his uncanny ability to anticipate needs and crises. He originated the character in the M*A*S*H film and portrayed Radar through the eighth season of the series.
- Burghoff has worked as a jazz musician, wildlife painter, and inventor.
- He made sporadic TV appearances and focused on family and art after leaving the show.
Other Notable Cast Members
| Actor | Character | Major Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Larry Linville | Major Frank Burns | Bumbling nemesis, exited after five seasons; guest roles on TV after M*A*S*H, died in 2000. |
| David Ogden Stiers | Major Charles Emerson Winchester III | Joined as the cultured Bostonian replacement for Frank Burns. Appeared in notable series and as a voice actor for Disney films. Died in 2018. |
| Allan Arbus | Sidney Freedman | Played the staff psychiatrist who made several appearances. Continued acting in films and TV until his 2013 death. |
M*A*S*H’s Enduring Impact
Few shows leave a mark like M*A*S*H. It gave viewers a blend of comedy and tragedy, introduced indelible characters, and pioneered storytelling that could be both political and deeply human. Many involved became activists, authors, and cultural commentators, with their influence extending into everything from live theater to animation to science education.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What made M*A*S*H so groundbreaking?
M*A*S*H used humor to address war’s horrors and the absurdity of life under stress. The show tackled taboo subjects for its era and built emotional complexity rarely seen in sitcoms.
Did any real military experience influence the cast?
Several cast members, including Alan Alda and Jamie Farr, served in the U.S. Army. Their experiences helped bring authenticity and empathy to their performances.
How successful was the M*A*S*H series finale?
The series finale, “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen,” drew more than 100 million viewers, still the most-watched scripted TV episode in American history.
Did the cast remain close after the show ended?
Many cast members remained in touch, reuniting for conventions, tribute specials, and even charity events.
Are there spin-offs or reboots to M*A*S*H?
The show spawned the spin-off series AfterMASH and TV movie reunions. While rumored reboots have surfaced, no direct continuation has been produced.
Photo Gallery: M*A*S*H Stars—Then and Now
- Alan Alda: From Hawkeye to science advocate, Alda continues to inspire.
- Loretta Swit: “Hot Lips” champions animal rights and live performance.
- Jamie Farr: Klinger’s comic genius lives on in stage and philanthropy.
- Gary Burghoff: “Radar” remains an accomplished artist and inventor.
- David Ogden Stiers: Beloved for his character’s wit and dignity, remembered for his voice roles in Disney classics.
- Mike Farrell: Activist, actor, and creative talent with a passion for justice.
Legacy Continues: Reflections on M*A*S*H
Whether making viewers laugh or tugging at their heartstrings, M*A*S*H’s cast delivered performances that stand the test of time. The combination of on-screen chemistry and off-screen camaraderie made the series unique. Today, these actors are celebrated not just for their memorable TV roles, but for their broader contributions as artists, advocates, and storytellers—proving that the legacy of M*A*S*H endures well beyond the battlefield.
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