If you’re a fan of MASH*, like me, you probably feel like you’ve seen it all—every laugh, every heartfelt moment, and every unforgettable character.
Known for its clever writing, emotional complexity, and sharp satire, MASH* became a beloved cultural phenomenon and a staple of American television. But as iconic as the series was, even it wasn’t immune to occasional errors, continuity issues, or anachronisms—many of which have gone unnoticed by its devoted fans.
As an ’80s kid, I remember MASH* always being on in the background, its iconic theme song signaling bedtime. I rarely made it past the opening credits, but years later, I gave the series another shot—and fell in love with it. MASH* wasn’t just a show; it was an event that brought families together. Its 1983 finale captivated nearly half the U.S. population and still holds the record for the most-watched primetime episode ever.
Set during the Korean War, MASH* focused on the lives of doctors and nurses at a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital (MAS*H). Using humor and compassion, they navigated the chaos of war, medicine, and personal relationships. Revisiting the show now, I’ve started noticing the small mistakes and fascinating trivia that make it even more entertaining. Here are some you might not know!
William Christopher’s Brush with Hepatitis
Did you know William Christopher, who played Father Mulcahy, had a close call with hepatitis during season five? His illness almost forced him off the show for good. Producers considered writing him out, but Alan Alda wasn’t about to let that happen. Understanding how vital steady work was for Christopher, who had a son with autism, Alda stepped in. He wrote an entire episode titled Hepatitis, weaving Christopher’s real-life illness into Mulcahy’s storyline. Talk about a supportive friend and creative solution!
Frank Burns’ Tumor Foreshadowing
Here’s a chilling tidbit: in the Hepatitis episode, Hawkeye examines Frank Burns, who offhandedly mentions, “I do have a pea-sized tumor under my sternum.” Years later, life imitated art in a tragic way when Larry Linville, the actor behind Frank, passed away from a malignant tumor in that very spot. Sometimes, reality has an eerie way of mirroring fiction.
Klinger: From Cameo to Icon
Jamie Farr’s portrayal of Max Klinger—often seen wearing dresses in a bid for a Section 8 discharge—was originally intended to be a one-episode role. But Farr’s charm and humor made such an impression that he became a series regular. Adding a personal touch, the dog tags Farr wore as Klinger were his actual military tags from his time in the service, complete with his name, serial number, and religion.
Military Oversights
While MASH* excelled in storytelling, it occasionally slipped in historical accuracy. In the season two episode For the Good of the Outfit, Henry Blake’s office features a Bell Huey UH-1 helicopter. The problem? The Huey didn’t exist until 1956—well after the Korean War. Similarly, characters often sported hairstyles far too modern for the 1950s. Only Colonel Potter and Major Winchester looked era-appropriate, while others seemed a bit too fashion-forward for the front lines.
The Shocking Death of Colonel Blake
Lieutenant Colonel Henry Blake’s death was one of TV history’s most shocking moments. When McLean Stevenson decided to leave the show in 1975, his character was killed off in a plane crash—a move that stunned fans and critics alike. The decision was meant to reflect the harsh realities of war, but it sparked such backlash that the producers vowed never to send off another character so tragically.
Radar’s Hidden Hand
Gary Burghoff, who played the endearing Cpl. Walter “Radar” O’Reilly, hid a personal detail on-screen: he was born with Poland syndrome, which affected his left hand. To keep the focus on his acting, Burghoff cleverly concealed his hand using props like clipboards or by keeping it in his pocket.
Radar’s Farewell
Burghoff’s demanding schedule eventually led him to step back from the show. In season seven, Radar bid farewell in a two-part episode titled Good-Bye Radar, marking his departure from the army. Reflecting on his decision, Burghoff once said, “You either want to be rich and famous, or you want to be a daddy. You can’t do both.”
Margaret Houlihan’s Nails and Nickname
Loretta Swit’s portrayal of Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan had its quirks. For instance, her long nails—over an inch in some episodes—were hardly realistic for a wartime nurse. Swit also wasn’t fond of the “Hot Lips” nickname, feeling it undermined her character’s professionalism. “She wasn’t just a body part; she was a major in the U.S. Army and deserved respect,” Swit said in an interview.
Plastic Surgery Rumors
Some fans speculate that Swit underwent plastic surgery during the show’s run, noting subtle changes in her appearance, such as a cleft chin and possible nose work. While Swit has never addressed these rumors, they remain a topic of curiosity among die-hard viewers.
Hawkeye’s Evolving Backstory
Hawkeye Pierce, played by Alan Alda, underwent significant character development. Initially from Vermont, with living parents and a married sister, his backstory later changed to depict him as an only child from Crabapple Cove, Maine, whose mother died when he was 10. Alda embraced these shifts, appreciating how they allowed his character to grow.
Alan Alda’s Emmy Legacy
Alan Alda’s contributions to MASH* were groundbreaking. He became the first person to win Emmys for acting, writing, and directing within the same series. His blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling left a lasting impact on the show.
Hawkeye and Margaret’s Relationship
Hawkeye and Margaret’s relationship evolved from professional respect to a deeper emotional connection. Their pivotal moment came in the two-part episode Comrades in Arms, where they spent a night stranded together. Although their relationship didn’t blossom into romance, it marked a turning point in their dynamic, showcasing the show’s balance of humor and depth.
The Longest Kiss
Comrades in Arms came full circle in the series finale, featuring one of the longest kisses in television history between Hawkeye and Margaret. Directed by Alda, the scene symbolized the bond between the characters and the actors, who were among the few to appear in both the pilot and the finale.
From its groundbreaking storytelling to its hidden quirks, MASH* remains a timeless classic. Whether you’re revisiting the show or discovering it for the first time, these behind-the-scenes tidbits add another layer of appreciation for this iconic series.
