M*A*S*H (1972–1983)
- Sep 16, 1972
- 3 min read
M*A*S*H is an American dramedy series that redefined television with its poignant blend of humor, heart, and anti-war commentary. Airing on CBS, the show, set during the Korean War, stood out for its sharp writing, unforgettable characters, and ability to balance comedy with the harsh realities of war. Its cultural impact and emotional resonance made it one of the most iconic series in TV history.
Created by Larry Gelbart, adapted from Robert Altman’s 1970 film and Richard Hooker’s novel MASH: A Novel About Three Army Doctors, M*A*S*H was developed with contributions from writers like Linda Bloodworth-Thomason. The series premiered on September 17, 1972, and its final episode, “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen,” aired on February 28, 1983, drawing 105.9 million viewers, a record at the time. Gelbart’s vision of a wartime medical unit delivered a timeless critique of conflict while celebrating human resilience.
Plot
Set at the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital (MASH) during the Korean War, M*A*S*H follows a team of doctors and staff, led by irreverent surgeon Hawkeye Pierce, as they save lives amid the chaos of war. Alongside Trapper John, B.J. Hunnicutt, Colonel Reese, Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan, and Radar O’Reilly, they navigate trauma, bureaucracy, and personal struggles. The show explores themes of camaraderie, morality, and the human cost of war, using humor and drama to highlight the absurdity and tragedy of their situation.
Cast
Alan Alda as Captain Benjamin “Hawkeye” Pierce
Wayne Rogers as Captain “Trapper” John McIntyre (seasons 1–3)
Mike Farrell as Captain B.J. Hunnicutt (seasons 4–11)
Loretta Swit as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan
Larry Linville as Major Frank Burns (seasons 1–5)
Harry Morgan as Colonel Sherman Potter (seasons 4–11)
Gary Burghoff as Corporal “Radar” O’Reilly (seasons 1–8)
Jamie Farr as Corporal/Sergeant Max Klinger
William Christopher as Father Francis Mulcahy
Seasons and Episodes
Season 1 (1972–1973) – 24 episodes
Season 2 (1973–1974) – 24 episodes
Season 3 (1974–1975) – 24 episodes
Season 4 (1975–1976) – 24 episodes
Season 5 (1976–1977) – 24 episodes
Season 6 (1977–1978) – 24 episodes
Season 7 (1978–1979) – 25 episodes
Season 8 (1979–1980) – 25 episodes
Season 9 (1980–1981) – 20 episodes
Season 10 (1981–1982) – 21 episodes
Season 11 (1982–1983) – 16 episodes Total Episodes: 251
Cultural Impact
M*A*S*H became a cultural juggernaut, with its finale remaining one of TV’s most-watched episodes. Iconic moments like Radar’s departure and lines like Hawkeye’s sarcastic quips entered pop culture. The show’s anti-war message, reflecting Vietnam-era sentiments, resonated deeply, influencing series like ER and Scrubs. It tackled issues like PTSD, racism, and feminism with nuance. Spin-offs (AfterMASH, Trapper John, M.D.), syndication on MeTV, and streaming on Hulu keep its legacy alive, with merchandise like DVDs and fan conventions sustaining its fandom.
Honors and Recognition
M*A*S*H won 14 Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series in 1974 and Outstanding Lead Actor for Alan Alda in 1974, 1982. It earned 109 Emmy nominations and a Peabody Award in 1976. The ensemble’s chemistry, particularly Alda’s nuanced Hawkeye and Loretta Swit’s evolving Margaret, was widely acclaimed, cementing the show’s critical success.
Conclusion
M*A*S*H remains a television masterpiece, celebrated for its blend of humor, heart, and profound commentary on war. Its unforgettable characters and timeless storytelling ensure its place as a cultural and emotional touchstone that continues to resonate across generations.
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