The heart of M*A*S*H was its unforgettable ensemble cast. In this section, we analyze the complex personalities that called the 4077th home—from the weary surgeons and dedicated nurses to the local Korean people who were often caught in the crossfire of the conflict. We explore character arcs, recurring motifs, and how these figures evolved from their original literary and film origins into the television icons we know today.
Although we know Radar and Trapper by their alternative nicknames, the only character in MASH who’s middle name we consistently hear is Charles Emerson Winchester, who was introduced in the sixth season to replace Frank Burns. Did Henry Blake have a middle name? Is it revealed in the show? Charles Winchester, of course, is fond … Read more
Unless you’ve seen the pilot episode of MASH dozens of times, as I have, you may be surprised to see someone other than William Christopher playing Father Mulcahy. Yes, that was the priest’s name in the first episode. He wasn’t replaced by another priest. This first actor to portray Father Mulcahy was George Morgan. He … Read more
Major Margaret Houlihan, head nurse of the 4077 MASH, played to perfection by the late Loretta Swit, was called by the nickname Hot Lips throughout much of the show’s run. But, when was she given this nickname? In the film adaptation of the original book, we witness the moment it happens. But, the show is … Read more
As with many questions about MASH, this one comes from the basic mistake of forgetting that it was a fictional comedy show first and everything else second. Nothing about the living quarters of the various characters on MASH had anything to do with reality and none of it made sense. They all served to advance … Read more
The writers really couldn’t keep Hawkeye’s character straight during the first season of MASH. He is the subject of such change, it will make your head spin. So, if you’re rewatching the first season, you may wonder, Does he have a sister? Is his mother alive? Is he from Vermont? I thought he was from … Read more
Although, admittedly, our beloved MASH TV show became the Hawkeye show in later seasons, he wasn’t the first character to speak in the show. That honor went, fittingly, to the only actor playing a main character who also appeared in the film version. Now, technically, I’m playing fast and loose with the truth if I … Read more