The untold story of 'M*A*S*H': 5 shocking behind-the-scenes facts
What's the story
M*A*S*H was a television series that blended humor with poignant commentary on war and human resilience. While most of us know it as a classic sitcom, some surprising aspects of its production and impact often go unnoticed. Here are five unexpected facts about M*A*S*H that give you a different perspective on this iconic show.
#1
The original film inspired the series
Before it became a beloved television series, M*A*S*H was actually based on a 1970 film of the same name. The film, directed by Robert Altman, set the tone for the show's unique blend of comedy and drama. While the film focused more on satire, it laid the groundwork for the series' exploration of complex themes within a comedic framework.
#2
Longest-running primetime scripted series
At the time of its finale in 1983, M*A*S*H was the longest-running primetime scripted series in America. It had aired for 11 seasons and over 250 episodes. This record remained unbroken until The Simpsons surpassed it in 1998. The show's longevity is a testament to its cultural impact and audience loyalty.
#3
Iconic theme song with different lyrics
The theme song for M*A*S*H, "Suicide Is Painless," is known for its haunting melody but different lyrics in the series. In the original film version, the lyrics were more focused on the themes of life and death. However, the television series used an instrumental version without lyrics during its opening credits.
#4
High viewership for series finale
The series finale of M*A*S*H drew in more than 105 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched episodes in television history at that time. Titled "Goodbye, Farewell and Amen," this two-and-a-half-hour episode provided closure to fans who had followed the characters through years of laughter and tears.
#5
Cast members with military backgrounds
Several cast members of M*A*S*H had real-life military experience, which added authenticity to their roles as doctors and staff at a mobile army surgical hospital during wartime Korea. For instance, Alan Alda (Hawkeye Pierce) served as an Army Reserve officer before joining the show, while other actors also had connections through family or personal experiences related to military service.